Liverpool’s coach Arne Slot made three changes from the team that won 1-0 at Crystal Palace: Kelleher replaced the injured Alisson between the posts, while Robertson and Szoboszlai played for Tsimikas and Mac Allister (both on the bench). Blues manager Enzo Maresca, who was missing both Fofana and Cucurella through suspension after the 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest, also had to make three changes. Adarabioyo and James, who was back in the Chelsea starting lineup for the first time since November 2023, started in his place. Fernandez (bench) also got a break and was replaced by Lavia.
At the beginning, the spectators initially saw a cautious feel for each other between the two teams, with few chances to score in the opening phase. Just as the guests had taken control of the game, however, the Blues were shocked: Colwill hit Jones’ leg in the penalty area, and Salah converted the resulting penalty to take the lead (29′).
The game then picked up pace: Gakpo scored what looked to be the 2-0 shortly afterwards, but was ruled offside (32′). On the opposite side, Jackson got the Blues back into it, but his powerful shot only hit the far post (34′).
The first half ended with another controversial incident: Jones, released by Darwin, appeared unmarked in the penalty area and went down in a challenge with Chelsea keeper Sanchez. Referee John Brooks pointed to the spot again, but after reviewing the images, the umpire rescinded the penalty (45.+2).
Crazy minutes after the break: Jones counters Jackson
Just a few minutes after the break, the Blues were back in the game: Jackson equalized after a through ball from Caicedo (48′). However, this was only recognized after a VAR review. However, the Blues’ joy was short-lived, with Liverpool going back in front three minutes later when Salah set up Jones, who poked the ball past Sanchez from close range (51).
But the visitors were not beaten yet, with the Blues continuing to fight against defeat: in particular, substitute Neto repeatedly created danger. This was also the case in minute 74, when the Portuguese only just missed the Liverpool goal (74). Once the seven-minute injury time had arrived, substitute Renato Veiga had another opportunity to head Palmer’s free-kick, but the substitute put it over the bar (90.+3).
The Blues were unable to create any more clear-cut chances in the final minutes, and so Liverpool held on to their narrow 2-1 lead to defend the top spot in the Premier League. The Reds will be in action again next Wednesday, when they face RB Leipzig in the Champions League at 9 p.m. Chelsea face Panathinaikos Athens on Thursday (18.45 CET) in the Conference League.
