UEFA Super Cup 2019: 3 reasons why Chelsea lost to Liverpool on penalties

Liverpool v Chelsea: UEFA Super Cup: The wily Roberto Firmino proved to be the difference for the Reds' promising second-half display

#1 Poor order of penalty takers

Irrespective of the missed opportunities and the entertainment provided to the fans in Istanbul, we ought to question the pattern of penalty-takers from Chelsea's side.

Why did a youngster step up, in a nail-biting contest against the Champions of Europe, to take the fifth and final spot-kick? Shouldn't it have been a more experienced and seasoned specialist such as Jorginho or Barkley, who converted penalties in style during pre-season?

In order, Jorginho, Barkley, Mount, Emerson and finally Abraham took responsibility in the shootout. Three out of the first four are decent penalty-takers, which makes you wonder why one of them did not step up for the final kick. Take note, Emerson has converted many penalties in recent times.

Compare and contrast this with the Reds' design of penalty takers; Mohamed Salah is always the fifth man to take charge, regardless of the stage or the situation. The likes of Divock Origi and Trent Alexander-Arnold slotted in the third and fourth spots, after Liverpool had gained confidence.

This is where minute details and the end result of crunch fixtures are decided.

Edited by Amar Anand