Liverpool’s love affair with Istanbul was furthered as they enjoyed another victorious European night at the venue on Wednesday despite Chelsea’s best efforts.
An enthralling Super Cup was decided 5-4 on penalties in favour of the Champions League winners after the tie was level at 2-2 with extra-time concluded.
Tammy Abraham was the only player to miss from the spot with Adrian saving the 10th penalty of the shootout.
Earilier, Olivier Giroud had opened the scoring via an excellent pass from Christian Pulisic in the first half but Sadio Mane drew Liverpool level early in the second.
The Senagalese then gave his side the lead in extra time but his effort was cancelled by a Jorginho penalty after Abraham was brought down, taking the tie to a shootout where the Europa League winners were second best.
Here, we rate the performances of Liverpool’s players.
STARTING XI (4-3-3)
Adrian 7 – Quick off his line to deny Kovacic but couldn’t stop Giroud’s effort. Saved well from Abraham but then brought the striker down to concede a penalty soon after. Had the last laugh in the shootout though.
Joe Gomez 6 – Deployed on the right instead of Trent Alexander-Arnold for more defensive solidity but battle with Pulisic was 50-50. Moved to the left in extra-time.
Joel Matip 7 – Solid in defence, making several tackles and interceptions. Made a case to start alongside Van Dijk permanently.
Virgil van Dijk 7 – Indomitable in the air and was strong when dealing with Giroud and Abraham. Good in possession.
Andy Robertson 4 – Struggled against Pedro and wasn’t his usual attacking self.
Jordan Henderson 6 – Bombed down the right channel to combine with Salah in Alexander-Arnold’s absence and delivered some decent crosses.
Fabinho 6 – Blazed an effort wide in the second half. Was overrun at times but largely anchored the midfield well.
James Milner 6 – Forced the issue from midfield and created a few half chances.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain 5 – Looked bright in parts and set up Salah for Liverpool’s best chance in first half but drifted out of the game and was replaced at the break.
Mohamed Salah 6 – Always looked a threat and went close to scoring. Wasn’t at his devastating best though.
Sadio Mane 7 – Should’ve done better with a couple of headers from corners. Scored the equaliser though before adding another with a fine strike in extra time.
SUBS
Roberto Firmino (46′) 8 – Turned the game on its head. Set up Mane twice and was integral to the attack.
Georginio Wijnaldum (64′) 6 – Neat and tidy with his passing after replacing Milner.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (91′) 5 – Had his hands full with Mason Mount.
