Liverpool entered the latest round of fixtures with a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League. With Arsenal and Manchester City securing victories, Liverpool aimed to maintain their lead against Chelsea.
In a commanding performance reminiscent of their 4-0 win against Bournemouth, Liverpool displayed confidence from the start. Darwin Nunez hit the woodwork twice early on, with Diogo Jota’s persistence resulting in the opening goal from Bradley’s pass. The promising 20-year-old, a standout talent for Liverpool this season, extended the lead by driving into the far corner.
Despite Nunez missing a penalty, Liverpool dominated, and Mykhailo Mudryk’s missed chance for Chelsea allowed Dominik Szoboszlai to head home Bradley’s cross, securing Liverpool’s third. Christopher Nkunku scored a consolation goal for Chelsea, but Luis Diaz added a fourth late in the game.
The victory not only maintained Liverpool’s lead in the Premier League but also boosted confidence ahead of their Carabao Cup final clash with Chelsea on February 25.
This win marked Liverpool’s second game following Jurgen Klopp’s announcement that he would leave the club at the end of the season after eight years. The emotional FA Cup fourth-round fixture against Norwich and this commanding performance suggest that Klopp’s players are determined to make his final season memorable.
Full-back Bradley stood out, earning a standing ovation upon being substituted. Despite Chelsea’s recent improvement under Mauricio Pochettino, especially at Stamford Bridge, their away form remained a concern, having lost five of their last six away games.
Although Chelsea had appeals for penalties denied, Liverpool’s dominant display underscored their title contender status, sending a strong message to their rivals.
