2023-24 Premier League: Liverpool and Chelsea play out thrilling 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge

Mauricio Pochettino, the new coach of Chelsea, watched his rebuilt team stage a compelling comeback to secure a 1-1 draw against Liverpool in their Premier League opener at Stamford Bridge on August 13, Sunday. Debutant defender Axel Disasi neutralised the early strike by Liverpool’s Luis Diaz.

Diaz appeared determined to spoil Pochettino’s first competitive encounter as Chelsea’s coach. An impressive defensive breakthrough by Mohamed Salah in the 18th minute, led Diaz to outstretch a foot and convert in a lightning-fast counter-attack.

Liverpool had hoped to extend their lead with a goal just over 10 minutes later. However, Salah was ruled offside before he could challenge Chelsea’s goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, a debutant amongst four others in the Blues’ starting lineup.

Chelsea’s perseverance led to an equaliser in the 37th minute. A failure by Liverpool to clear a corner allowed French international, Axel Disasi to capitalise on the situation. Disasi, who hailed from AS Monaco this month, struck a smooth finish from close quarters following a looping header by Ben Chilwell.

Two minutes post the equaliser, Chilwell outplayed Liverpool’s goalkeeper, Alison Becker, to score another goal but was declared offside by VAR. Post-break, Chelsea owned the majority of possession but failed to convert into a second goal. Towards the match’s conclusion, a deflected shot by substitute Darwin Nunez nearly clinched the win for Liverpool.

The opening match underlined the tenacity with which Pochettino has rebuilt this Chelsea team, instilling a fighting spirit evident in their equaliser and defensive performances.

Liverpool, in contrast, showed their lighting speed and agility but struggled to maintain their early lead. Both teams showcased commendable resilience and tactical brilliance, hinting at an exciting season ahead.