Player Ratings: Van Dijk Shines, Kelleher Impresses, Forward Struggles in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup Win over Chelsea

The clash between Chelsea and Liverpool was filled with incidents, including goals disallowed for offside on both sides of half-time. Raheem Sterling and Van Dijk were victims of technology, while Conor Gallagher and Cole Palmer had their efforts denied by the woodwork and Caoimhin Kelleher, respectively.

 

Caoimhin Kelleher was instrumental in Liverpool’s victory, making two crucial saves. He denied Cole Palmer from close range in the first half and later stopped Conor Gallagher’s goal-bound attempt. His performance earned him a rating of 9.

 

Conor Bradley, who displayed great energy and threat while operating as a right winger, earned a rating of 7.5. Ibrahima Konate engaged in an interesting battle with Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson and emerged as the stronger player, demonstrating strength, game reading ability, and a commanding presence. He received a rating of 8.

The standout player of the match was Virgil van Dijk, who earned a rating of 9 and the Man of the Match title. Van Dijk’s header resulted in a disallowed goal, but he later scored an even better header in deep extra time to secure the victory. He led by example, guiding a young squad through a challenging task and delivering an imperious display.

 

Andy Robertson, who had missed three months due to injury, showcased his return to full fitness with a solid performance. He made important interceptions and contributed to the team’s attack from the left wing, earning a rating of 7.5. Alexis Mac Allister engaged in battles with his Argentine teammate Enzo Fernandez and former Brighton colleague Moises Caicedo but struggled to have a significant impact on the attacking moves, receiving a rating of 7.

 

Wataru Endo was consistently available to receive the ball and played a vital role in screening the Liverpool defense. His clever play as a No. 6 disrupted many of Chelsea’s counter-attacks, earning him a rating of 8.5. Ryan Gravenberch’s first final in English football ended sadly as he was stretchered off after a tackle by Moises Caicedo, resulting in a rating of 5.

 

Harvey Elliott provided a source of energy for Liverpool, whether on the right wing or in central areas. However, he often lacked the final pass and was unlucky not to score, earning a rating of 8. Cody Gakpo had a notable chance that hit the post but didn’t pose much of a threat otherwise, receiving a rating of 6.5. Luis Diaz was the most dangerous player in red on the pitch, consistently running and creating opportunities. Although he was occasionally wasteful in good areas, he put on a good performance, earning a rating of 7.5