Xabi Alonso handed new regret as Liverpool continue Chelsea’s penalty nightmare
Liverpool 1-1 Chelsea (6-5 on penalties): Alonso lost on his return to Anfield and, while the Carabao Cup is their least important competition, a first chance at silverware in a season without European football is gone
Xabi Alonso reflected on his return to Liverpool's Anfield as the Reds continued Chelsea's penalty nightmare. With his Champions League and FA Cup triumphs at Anfield under his belt, Alonso predicted the shootouts that would define their encounter. In fact, Liverpool emerged victorious in their fifth consecutive shootout against Chelsea, who had failed to win a domestic cup since 2018.
Despite missing spot kicks in the first half, Chelsea's efforts were ultimately thwarted by Wesley Fofana's error and Joe Gomez's decisive conversion. Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders showed restraint with a stellar save, and Morgan Rogers and Cody Gakpo each chipped in with penalties to level the score. The absence of Joao Pedro and the suspension of Ryan Palmer allowed Liverpool to field their strongest lineup.
Chelsea's absence of one of their first-choice forwards compounded their struggles during the shootout.
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- Xabi Alonso and Jordan Henderson Return to Anfield with Chelsea sports.yahoo.com
