Crime victory in the League Cup
Liverpool FC wins first title on Klopp’s farewell tour
February 25, 2024, 6:48 p.m
Liverpool FC has to cope with numerous high-profile injuries and yet the club wins its first title of the season: in the League Cup final, Jürgen Klopp’s battered team defeated Chelsea FC after extra time. Jürgen Klopp says goodbye with at least one title.
The German star team manager Jürgen Klopp won his first title on his farewell tour with Liverpool FC. In the League Cup final, his team won 1-0 (0-0) after extra time against Chelsea FC – although some top stars such as Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez and Alisson are missing. In a turbulent game at Wembley Stadium in London, captain Virgil van Dijk (118th) scored late and secured his coach the promised title – it is Klopp’s eighth as coach of the top English club. Before the game, the Dutchman emphasized that he wanted to “give his sponsor a special day”.
The German’s time in Liverpool ends in the summer. As the 56-year-old announced in a video message in January, he is leaving the club at his own request. He has been in office since October 2015. His team still has further chances of winning a title in the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup.
After a cautious start by both teams, a fast-paced and tight finale developed with many good chances. But Liverpool’s injury concerns also increased. Ex-Bayern professional Ryan Gravenberch had to go out injured after a foul by Moises Caicedo (27th). The VAR did not intervene – a red card would have been justifiable.
Only when the Reds supposedly fell behind due to a goal from Raheem Sterling did he come into play – assist provider Nicolas Jackson was offside (33′) and so the score remained 0-0. A small scuffle in stoppage time in the first half made it clear that there was no lack of passion.
Even after the break it was entertaining. In the 60th minute, Klopp was briefly relieved. LFC captain van Dijk scored with a header – but the goal was again conceded by the VAR.
The offensive fireworks from both teams continued with advantages for Mauricio Pochettino’s team. However, the evaluation of the chances still left something to be desired, also because LFC keeper Caoimhin Kelleher made brilliant saves at times. A winner was not decided after 90 minutes. At the end of the second half of extra time, van Dijk scored with a header from a corner.