- Context: Both Chelsea and Liverpool entered the international-break clash in patchy form. Chelsea had lost three of their previous five matches despite big summer spending【365951836550761†L38-L45】, while Liverpool were reeling from consecutive defeats to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray【365951836550761†L42-L45】. The Blues trailed leaders Liverpool by seven points but hoped to close the gap【365951836550761†L47-L49】.
- Team news: Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca faced a major injury crisis, missing Cole Palmer and several defenders while dealing with suspensions【365951836550761†L147-L160】. Liverpool were without goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who began a six-week recovery【365951836550761†L181-L184】. Giorgi Mamardashvili deputised, and questions surrounded Mohamed Salah’s form and Alexander Isak’s readiness.
- Prediction & tactics: With both defences vulnerable, an open contest with goals at both ends was expected. Chelsea needed to manage their depleted back line against Liverpool’s attack, while the Reds had to tighten up.
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