Rio Ngumoha hails unforgettable England spell after clinching Liverpool pre-season win

Rio Ngumoha says his first taste of senior international football with England was “something I will never forget” after the Liverpool teenager hit the winner in a 1-0 pre-season victory over Wrexham in the United States.

The 18-year-old winger, who is eligible to represent Nigeria as well as England, came off the bench to decide the friendly when his second-half strike took a deflection, looped over the Wrexham goalkeeper and dropped into the net.

Ngumoha’s goal ensured another positive result for Liverpool as they build towards the 2026-27 campaign and their Premier League opener against Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

The academy product enjoyed a breakthrough season at Anfield last term and again showcased his potential, standing out in a youthful Liverpool side as they continued their preparations on tour in the USA.

England debut still fresh in Ngumoha’s mind

Ngumoha’s emergence at club level over the past year did not go unnoticed by England, with the winger earning a surprise call-up to the senior squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

He made his debut in a friendly win over New Zealand, appearing for the Three Lions in a non-competitive fixture which, under FIFA rules, means he remains free to switch international allegiance to Nigeria in the future.

Reflecting on that first senior cap after the victory over Wrexham, Ngumoha described the experience as a significant moment in his career.

“That was a very top experience, it is something I will never forget,” Ngumoha told ESPN after Liverpool’s slim victory over Wrexham in the USA.

Praise for England manager and staff

Ngumoha also spoke warmly about the atmosphere within the England camp and the way he was treated by the coaching staff during his time with the squad.

“It was special, the manager was very nice to me and all the coaching staff for England were top,” he concluded.

While the forward did not go into detail about his long-term international plans, his comments underlined the impression made on him by the England set-up.

Focus returns to Liverpool breakthrough

With the new domestic season drawing closer, Ngumoha’s immediate focus is on consolidating his place at Liverpool after forcing his way into first-team contention last year.

The winger’s performances this summer, including his match-winning turn against Wrexham, have strengthened his case for further involvement under Liverpool’s coaching staff as they assess their options ahead of the competitive campaign.

Maintaining his current form through the remainder of pre-season will be key if he is to secure more regular minutes and continue his development at Anfield, where expectations are growing after his rapid rise over the past 12 months.