Luis Diaz set the stage for an electrifying encounter as he opened the scoring for Liverpool, while Chelsea’s debutant Axel Dsasi quickly answered back with a leveller.
In a lively clash at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea and Liverpool showcased a game that only fueled the anticipation of their potentially unpredictable seasons.
Liverpool took the initiative in the early stages. Mo Salah’s curling effort from the edge of the box struck the crossbar before his exquisite cross was converted by a sliding Luis Diaz.
Despite Liverpool’s goal advantage, the team had a VAR-disallowed Salah strike and exposed vulnerabilities in their midfield. As Chelsea gained momentum, Axel Disasi capitalized on a static defense to equalize on his debut.
The second half witnessed opportunities for both sides. Liverpool appealed for a penalty due to a handball by Nicolas Jackson. Liverpool’s substitute Darwin Nunez narrowly missed a shot from distance, while Chelsea’s Mykhaylo Mudryk also came close after a breakaway. The match concluded in a draw, marking the seventh consecutive time this fixture has ended level after 90 minutes.
Here are the key talking points:
1. Liverpool’s attacking approach
Cody Gakpo started in a role just off the front three (Image: AP)
When faced with a shortage of midfielders, Liverpool opted to deploy a more aggressive offensive strategy.
Liverpool’s lineup choice might have surprised some observers. However, if one followed their preseason matches and noted their limited transfer activity, it became apparent that they were likely to field Cody Gakpo in an advanced midfield position behind a conventional front three. The other two midfielders weren’t hesitant to contribute offensively either. This dynamic setup enabled Liverpool to dominate the early proceedings against a nervy Chelsea side, creating a clear goal-scoring advantage.
2. Salah’s sharpness and impact
Salah was terrific for the Reds in the opening 45 minutes (Image: NEIL HALL/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
Regardless of the number of attackers or midfielders on the pitch, Salah’s presence alone spells trouble for opponents.
Positioned on the right, Salah played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s early attacking chaos. His potential hat-trick was narrowly missed as his shot hit the crossbar, a goal-line clearance was executed, and a VAR-offside decision was made. He demonstrated his playmaking prowess by threading an exquisite cross for Diaz’s finish. Salah’s impact in the opening half reaffirmed his potency for the upcoming season. His displeasure at being substituted late in the match underscored his determination to contribute consistently.
3. Chelsea’s tactical shift
Axel Disasi got Chelsea’s equaliser on his Blues debut (Image: PA)
Liverpool’s aggressive approach left them vulnerable to counterattacks, which Chelsea effectively exploited following Salah’s disallowed goal.
Although Chelsea initially struggled to thwart Liverpool’s attacking endeavors, they capitalized on their opponents’ weakness during the match. An overwhelmed Alexis Mac Allister in Liverpool’s midfield was exploited by Chelsea, and the dynamic shifted in Chelsea’s favor. Disasi‘s debut goal exemplified Chelsea’s resurgence, reflecting their ability to exploit moments of vulnerability in Liverpool’s defense.
4. Pochettino’s influence on Chelsea
Pochettino cut an agitated figure for much of the first half before Chelsea improved (Image: Dave Shopland/REX/Shutterstock)
Pochettino’s tactical influence was evident as Chelsea’s performance significantly improved after a lackluster first half.
Wearing his familiar all-black attire reminiscent of his time at Tottenham, Pochettino‘s enthusiasm and encouragement for his players were on full display. His impact was particularly evident when he applauded Conor Gallagher for his defensive efforts against Salah. Pochettino’s style and demeanor seem to resonate well with Chelsea’s environment, dispelling any skepticism surrounding his appointment due to his Tottenham history. Gallagher’s dedication showcased the determination that was at times lacking in Chelsea’s previous season.
5. Addressing the missing puzzle pieces
Both sides could do with midfield upgrades (Image: Javier Garcia/REX/Shutterstock)
Both Chelsea and Liverpool are in need of a central midfielder valued at £110 million.
While Chelsea already boasts Enzo Fernandez in that role, both teams are likely to reinforce their midfield positions. The puzzle is incomplete until they secure suitable signings, as both teams exhibit vulnerabilities that a skilled midfielder could address.
