Liverpool Uses Chelsea’s Errors, Wins at Stamford Bridge, 0-2

The derby of Week 2 of the English Premier League between Chelsea and Liverpool saw the guests taking all three points after a 0-2 victory.

The reigning champions showed Chelsea that they still have to work hard in order to become a candidate for the title. Right now, they are miles behind the Reds and probably Man City.

What decided the game was Andreas Christensen’s red card in the stoppage time of the first half. After that, Liverpool made a blitzkrieg early on in the second, solved, and closed the game in a brutal style.

Sadio Mane was the man of the match with the Senegalese player scoring both goals and forcing Christensen to make a foul that led to a red card.

“It was a tough game, especially the first half. The red card made it easier, and in the second half, we created many chances. When [Christensen] fouled me, I knew it would be a red card,” Mane said.

Five minutes into the second half, we saw a perfect cross from Roberto Firminho and Mane’s even better execution, whose header finished behind stunned Kepa.

Four minutes later, a complete shock for the hosts and all of their fans across the world. Kepa made an amateur mistake, handing the ball directly to Mane inside the goalkeeper area without anyone around him. Such a gift is something the former EPL Golden Boot doesn’t waste, and both Chelsea and their goalkeeper were punished severely.

The first half was dull, without some notable chances, with the game going on between the two boxes. Liverpool did control the pace and the rhythm, but we can’t say that the initiative was on their side.

Jorginho completed the Blues’ frustrating night, missing a penalty in the 75th minute, taking the shot badly, and allowing Alisson to post another excellent save.

Frank Lampard was very unhappy with the way his team played. The former Chelsea captain was aware that his club is an underdog in today’s matchup, but didn’t expect to see them this pale against the champions. Lampard also isn’t sure that Christensen deserved to be sent off.

“Not definitely a red card,” he said. “I think it could be given or not. I was perhaps surprised it was given as a yellow first. If it was given as a red straight away, and you continue with that.”

4⃣5⃣ minutes
7⃣5⃣ completed passes

How are we, @Thiago6? pic.twitter.com/Qtp0sJvGDm

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 20, 2020

The referee had to consult VAR after showing the yellow card and show Chelsea’s center-back the way to the locker room. The London team appeared without Chrisitan Pulisic, and three of their newcomers – Ziyech, Silva and Chilwell. It was a big handicap for the Blues, whose game will heavily depend upon Pulisic following Willian’s departure to Arsenal.

On the other side, Thiago Alcantara debuted for Liverpool, leaving a very good impression. The champion of Europe with Bayern Munich was relaxed, and found his way around pretty fast, creating several solid attacks for his teammates.

“I liked his game a lot. Defensively it was tricky for him, but offensively, with the ball, that’s him, he wants to pass the ball,” said Jurgen Klopp, who was satisfied today with almost all aspects of Liverpool’s performance.

Up next, the Reds are preparing for another derby, only this time against Arsenal next Monday. In the meantime, they have a clash with Lincoln Town in the EFL Cup.

As for Chelsea, they meet Barnsley in the EFL, and after that, have a road contest vs. WBA.