21 first goal for Mo Salah He’s just unstoppable

Mohamed Salah’s first official goal for Liverpool came on August 12, 2017, during a Premier League match against Watford at Vicarage Road. This game marked Salah’s league debut for the Reds, following his transfer from AS Roma earlier that summer.

Background and Transfer to Liverpool

In June 2017, Liverpool secured the signing of Mohamed Salah from AS Roma for an initial fee of £36.5 million, potentially rising to £43 million with add-ons. This transfer set a new club record at the time, surpassing the £35 million paid for Andy Carroll in 2011. Salah was assigned the number 11 shirt, previously worn by Roberto Firmino, who switched to number 9. His arrival was met with anticipation, as fans hoped he would bolster Liverpool’s attacking options.

Pre-Season and Initial Impressions

Before the Premier League season commenced, Salah participated in Liverpool’s pre-season friendlies. On July 14, 2017, he made his debut in a friendly against Wigan Athletic. In that match, Salah showcased his attacking prowess by scoring a goal. The play began with Philippe Coutinho dispossessing a Wigan defender, leading to a counter-attack. Coutinho passed the ball to Roberto Firmino, who then squared it to Salah. Positioned advantageously, Salah tapped the ball into the net, marking his first goal in a Liverpool shirt.

Premier League Debut Against Watford

The Premier League opener against Watford was eagerly anticipated by Liverpool supporters, as it provided the first competitive glimpse of Salah in action. The match was a roller-coaster, filled with goals and dramatic moments.

First Half: A Tense Beginning

Watford started strongly, with Stefano Okaka opening the scoring in the 8th minute, heading in from a corner. Liverpool responded in the 29th minute when Sadio Mané curled a shot into the top corner, leveling the score. However, Watford regained the lead in the 32nd minute through Abdoulaye Doucouré, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to make it 2-1.

Salah’s Impact and Goal

In the 55th minute, Liverpool was awarded a penalty after Salah was fouled in the box. Roberto Firmino stepped up and converted the spot-kick, bringing the score to 2-2. Just minutes later, in the 57th minute, Firmino received a lofted pass and lobbed the advancing goalkeeper. Salah, showcasing his trademark speed and anticipation, followed the play and ensured the ball crossed the line, tapping it into the net from close range. This goal not only gave Liverpool a 3-2 lead but also marked Salah’s first official goal for the club.

Match Conclusion

Despite Liverpool’s efforts, Watford equalized in stoppage time, with Miguel Britos scoring from close range after a scramble in the box. The match concluded in a 3-3 draw, highlighting areas for improvement in Liverpool’s defense but also showcasing the attacking potential of their new signing, Salah.

Significance of the Goal

Salah’s debut goal was a precursor to an extraordinary season. He went on to break numerous records, including becoming the Premier League’s all-time top scorer for a 38-game season with 32 goals. His immediate impact dispelled any doubts about his ability to succeed in English football, especially after a less impactful stint at Chelsea earlier in his career.

This first goal was emblematic of Salah’s playing style: a combination of pace, positioning, and a keen eye for goal. It set the tone for what would become a legendary tenure at Liverpool, with Salah cementing his status as one o

f the world’s elite forwards.