Klopp
Chelsea had Cesc Fabregas sent off as they beat Liverpool 1-0 in their International Champions Cup clash in Los Angeles.
Jurgen Klopp's side came into the game after winning their previous four
friendlies this summer, but Gary Cahill's goal early in the first half
condemned the Reds to a disappointing result in Pasadena, despite the
Blues having Cesc Fabregas sent off.
Daniel Sturridge, Divock
Origi and Christian Benteke did not travel to Southern California and
stayed at the team's hub in Palo Alto, so Klopp continued with the front
three of Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane, as well as
handing Ragnar Klavan a debut in the heart of the defence.
Chelsea, meanwhile, fielded a strong side, with Fabregas, Willian, Nemanja Matic and Cesar Azpilicueta among the starters.
The
game started slowly. Both teams were very organised and disciplined in
their shape and it was no surprise that the opening goal came from a set
piece. Cahill rose highest from Victor Moses' corner as Liverpool
conceded their first goal of the preseason.
The game remained
tight, but the Reds began to grow into the contest. Coutinho went close
to levelling but his free kick was well saved by Asmir Begovic. Firmino
then put the ball in the back of the net after a sensational back-heel
pass from youngster Ovie Ejaria, only for the linesman to correctly rule
the Brazilian offside.
Liverpool made a host of changes in the
second half, most notably with captain Jordan Henderson returning to
club action, having been given extended rest following Euro 2016.
Chelsea
made some significant changes in the 67th minute, with summer signing
Michy Batshuayi, the returning Juan Cuadrado and Pedro all introduced.
The
match was full of determination, with the referee issuing six yellow
cards, and Fabregas was deservedly sent off for a late lunge on Klavan
in the 70th minute of the game.
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