In his FA Cup final pre-match presser, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that his team could not 'beat' Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final earlier this season. The Reds prevailed 11-10 on penalties after 120 goalless minutes.
Liverpool and Chelsea will lock horns once again in the the FA Cup final on Saturday. The Reds beat Manchester City in a high-stakes semi-final, while the Blues got the better of Tottenham Hotspur in the last four.
Jurgen Klopp’s side came out on top in a titanic shootout in the Carabao Cup final, with substitute goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga producing the only miss. Recounting the game, Klopp said, as per Liverpool ECHO:
“We didn't 'beat' Chelsea. We won the shootout. I've said a few times without luck you have no chance, and luck was on our side that day. We know how good Chelsea are. Both teams will go for it.”
Romelu Lukaku’s performance could decide Chelsea’s fate in FA Cup final against Liverpool
Considering the way the Reds have performed this season, it would not be unfair to consider them as favorites for the FA Cup final. They have a great manager, a talented squad and impressive mental strength, making them a tough team to beat.
Chelsea, who lost last year's FA Cup final to Leicester City, will be looking to make amends. To break the Reds down, however, the Blues might require something extraordinary from a player many have chalked down as a flop. Romelu Lukaku, who has had a second wind in the last few games, could be the Londoners' key player this weekend.
Having scored three goals in his last two starts, the Belgian is bubbling with confidence.
He has seemingly improved his fitness, looks a lot more committed on the pitch and has demonstrated impressive perseverance. If he brings his A-game to Wembley Stadium on Saturday, the Reds could be in for a long and difficult night.
A Liverpool win would mean their quadruiple hopes would stay alive. The Reds are involved in a tight Premier League title race with Manchester City. They are also in the final of the Champions League.