Estêvão – Foto: Instagram
Chelsea and Liverpool drew 1-1 in an electrifying match in the seventh round of the Premier League on Saturday (4) at Stamford Bridge. The game, ongoing until the 40th minute of the second half, featured a stunning goal from Moisés Caicedo for Chelsea and a response from Gakpo for Liverpool. Both teams exchanged dangerous chances, with standout performances from Mamardashvili and young talents like Estevão.
Liverpool started strongly, dominating the opening minutes. However, Chelsea took control with tight midfield marking. Caicedo, who scored, was key in offensive transitions. Liverpool relied on quick counterattacks, with Salah and Gakpo creating the main opportunities.
- Key moments of the match so far:
- 13’ (1H): Caicedo fires a powerful shot from outside the box to open the scoring for Chelsea.
- 17’ (2H): Gakpo equalizes for Liverpool after a Szoboszlai cross.
- 20’ (2H): Salah misses a clear chance in a Liverpool counterattack.
- 38’ (2H): Mamardashvili makes a double save on shots from Gittens and Estevão.
- 39’ (1H): Garnacho nearly extends Chelsea’s lead but shoots just wide of the post.
Caicedo dominates midfield
Moisés Caicedo was the first-half standout, scoring a stunner at 13 minutes. The Ecuadorian midfielder received the ball, shook off Mac Allister, and fired into the top corner, leaving Mamardashvili no chance. Beyond his goal, Caicedo contributed with tackles and precise passes, including one to Pedro Neto in the box. His performance reinforces his strong form this season, with three goals so far.
Liverpool responds with Gakpo
Liverpool, despite a strong start, struggled after Chelsea’s goal. In the second half, Gakpo leveled the score at 17 minutes, capitalizing on a Szoboszlai cross. The Dutch forward was crucial in creating plays down the left. Salah, quiet in the first half, grew into the game but missed a clear chance. Wirtz’s introduction at halftime added dynamism to Liverpool’s midfield. Mamardashvili, with critical saves, prevented Chelsea from taking the lead again.
Open game and substitutions
The second half saw intense back-and-forth action. Chelsea lost two defenders to injury: Acheampong and Badiashile. Hato and Lavia came on and maintained defensive solidity. For Liverpool, Curtis Jones and Robertson bolstered the midfield and left flank. Estevão, entering at the 29th minute of the second half, nearly scored with a powerful shot but was stopped by Mamardashvili. The game remains open, with both sides pushing for a winner.
Young talents shine
Estevão, only 18, came on in the second half and immediately posed a threat. His 38th-minute shot was denied by Mamardashvili’s brilliant save. Garnacho, another youngster, created good chances for Chelsea but lacked precision. For Liverpool, Wirtz, replacing Bradley, brought fresh energy to the team. The match showcases the Premier League’s new generation of talents.
Mamardashvili’s heroics
Liverpool’s goalkeeper was pivotal in securing the draw. At 38 minutes in the second half, Mamardashvili made an incredible double save. He first parried a cross-shot from Gittens, then stretched to deny Estevão’s fierce follow-up. His performance has been crucial in keeping Liverpool level.
