UEFA Super Cup 2019, Liverpool 2-2 Chelsea: 3 reasons why the Reds pipped Chelsea 5-4 on penalties

Liverpool v Chelsea: UEFA Super Cup
Liverpool v Chelsea: UEFA Super Cup

#3 Sadio Mane announces his return in emphatic fashion

Liverpool v Chelsea: UEFA Super Cup
Liverpool v Chelsea: UEFA Super Cup

Sadio Mane made his first start of the season as the Reds aimed to add more silverware to their ranks.

The Senegalese winger was restricted to a substitute appearance in Liverpool's Premier League opener but was chosen to lead the line on the night.

Mane carried on from where he left off last season and scored two crucial goals on first competitive start in the new season.

The 27-year-old has been in sensational form for club and country since the turn of the year, making match-winning contributions with incredible consistency. Speaking before the game, the Golden Boot winner signalled his intent to hit the ground running immediately and he did so in emphatic fashion,

As Roberto Firmino's flick was tapped in past Kepa Arrizabalaga for the equalizer, the same combination came back to haunt Chelsea in extra-time.

Mane capped off a sensational individual performance with a devastating finish in extra-time, slamming Firmino's cross onto the roof of the net to put Liverpool ahead.

Liverpool's front-three were at their brilliant best with their returning hit-man and Mane's form comes as a massive boost to Jurgen Klopp, as the Reds look to mount another title challenge.

Quick Links