Liverpool vs Chelsea predictions: 3 key battles
Liverpool and Chelsea had contrasting starts to their Premier League campaigns.
The Reds blew Norwich away, winning 4-1 and generally dominated the game. Chelsea, on the other hand, impressed at Old Trafford but still lost 4-0 to Manchester United.
The Red Devils took their chances against Chelsea, and this was a tough lesson for new manager Frank Lampard.
There were some bright spots for Lampard with the likes of Emerson, Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham doing well.
Liverpool didn’t have it all easy against the newcomers with Norwich creating several chances.
Jurgen Klopp’s men converted their chances with aplomb and the two giants face each other at the UEFA Super Cup final on Wednesday.
Both teams haven’t bought big players in the summer for varying reasons, and here are three battles that could decide where the trophy ends up.
Mohamed Salah vs Emerson
Mohamed Salah started the season on fire with a goal and an assist. The Egyptian has scored on every opening day game since joining the Reds and will be looking to get one over his former employers.
Salah would have to be contained by Emerson, who has taken over from Marcos Alonso as Chelsea’s left-back.
The Italian did well against United and was a threat in the attack too as he hit the post with an effort.
The 25-year-old did well in the Europa League games last season under Maurizio Sarri, and it seems that he will be the
Fabinho vs Mason Mount
Mount impressed against United, even though he played in the Championship last season.
The midfielder didn’t let the occasion get to him, and his creativity will be important for Chelsea to get the better of the Reds.
The midfielder’s job won’t be made easy with Fabinho marshalling the Liverpool defence.
The Brazilian became one of the most important players for Klopp in the second half of the previous season, and this battle could decide which team
Roberto Firmino vs Kurt Zouma
Roberto Firmino didn’t have the most productive season last time around for Liverpool. The Brazilian was still favoured by Klopp, but there was something amiss from the forward in the final third.
That was not the case against Norwich as Firmino was possibly the best player on the pitch, without scoring a goal.
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Kurt Zouma had a nightmare at Old Trafford conceding a penalty, and the Frenchman has to be on his A-game to keep Firmino from running circles around him on Wednesday.