With the impending conclusion of Jurgen Klopp’s tenure, Liverpool seized the chance to kick off his final months by clinching his second League Cup against Chelsea.
In an injury-plagued match, Virgil van Dijk’s late header propelled a depleted Liverpool past Chelsea in extra-time to claim the League Cup.
Despite grappling with a slew of injuries to key players, Jurgen Klopp’s side maintained their trademark high pressing, assertive approach. Their dominance nearly paid off in the first half when Cody Gakpo’s header struck the post following a Chelsea giveaway.
However, controversy arose in the second half when Virgil van Dijk had a goal disallowed after a VAR review. Wataru Endo’s offside position during the buildup led to the decision.
Caoimhin Kelleher emerged as Liverpool’s savior, pulling off remarkable saves against Conor Gallagher, Cole Palmer, and Christopher Nkunku to keep the Reds in contention. The tension escalated in extra time as Harvey Elliott appeared to secure victory with a header, only for Djordje Petrovic’s miraculous save to maintain a goalless deadlock.
As anticipation mounted for a potential penalty shootout, Virgil van Dijk emerged as the hero in the 27th minute of extra time, nodding in Kostas Tsimikas’ corner to clinch victory for Liverpool. With that in mind, Newsnow Liverpool has taken a look at three things Jurgen Klopp got right in Carabao Cup win.
Changing His Shape
Klopp has consistently utilized a 4-3-3 formation since joining Liverpool. His preference has always been for a midfield trio, with one player stationed in front of the back four, while the other two aim to press high and regain possession.
However, due to injuries to both Trent Alexander-Arnold, who typically operates in a more central role, and Gravenberch, Klopp had to make adjustments. With Bradley pushed further up the pitch, Joe Gomez appeared to fill the gap between Ibrahima Konate and Bradley, forming a back three.
Despite managers often being rigid in their tactical setups and philosophies, Klopp demonstrated flexibility, enabling his team to compensate for their shortage of midfielders.
Siege Mentality
The Liverpool injury list presents a daunting sight for any football manager. Klopp’s squad was deprived of its star players, including Mohamed Salah, Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker, and Thiago Alcantara, along with pivotal goalscorers Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez.
Despite the absence of key figures, Liverpool exhibited resilience on the field. From the onset, they set a scorching pace, sustaining it throughout the entire match.
Rather than succumbing to despondency, Liverpool approached the game with vigor. Klopp’s refusal to dwell on setbacks, coupled with his infectious optimism, has fostered a sense of confidence among the available players. By eschewing excuses, he has upheld his trademark positivity, sparing his team from the contagion of negativity often associated with managerial grievances.
Flooding the Midfield
Klopp has been utilizing Alexander-Arnold in a dual capacity as both a full-back and midfielder since the season’s inception. This role is notably unique and intricate, requiring specific technical skills and instinctual capabilities.
Under Klopp’s guidance, Bradley and eventually Gomez were entrusted with executing the responsibilities typically shouldered by the England international. This tactical shift enabled Liverpool to press Chelsea effectively, restricting their movement and forcing hurried passes.
During certain moments, Chelsea struggled to connect even three passes before conceding possession. Klopp’s unwavering confidence in his squad, regardless of absences, underscores their ability to compete across multiple competitions.
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