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Liverpool Return to Top of Premier League with Win Over Chelsea

Liverpool climbed back to the summit of the Premier League with a 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Anfield, continuing the remarkable start under new manager Arne Slot. The Dutchman has now won 10 of his first 11 games in charge, setting a new record for a Liverpool manager.

Mohamed Salah opened the scoring from the penalty spot after 29 minutes when Levi Colwill fouled Curtis Jones in the area. Liverpool were initially awarded a second penalty just before halftime for Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s challenge on Jones, but it was overturned by VAR after review.

Chelsea capitalized on that reprieve, with Nicolas Jackson equalizing just three minutes into the second half. His goal, initially flagged offside, was allowed after a VAR check. However, Liverpool responded quickly, with Jones scoring the decisive goal from Salah’s cross three minutes later, restoring the Reds’ lead.

Slot’s only loss as Liverpool manager remains the surprise defeat to Nottingham Forest in September. For Chelsea, this marked their first Premier League defeat under new boss Enzo Maresca since their opening-weekend loss to Manchester City.

Liverpool’s Measured Approach Continues

Under Slot, Liverpool has transitioned into a more measured and controlled team, a departure from the high-intensity, all-action style that defined Jurgen Klopp’s reign. The results, however, remain just as effective. This latest win, against an improving Chelsea side, solidified their position at the top of the table, just ahead of Manchester City, who had earlier edged Wolves in dramatic fashion.

Salah, while quieter than usual, played a crucial role with both a goal and an assist, and Jones deservedly netted the winner after a lively performance. Despite a few nervy moments near the end and the early injury to Diogo Jota, who was replaced by Darwin Nunez, Liverpool are well-positioned heading into next weekend’s clash with Arsenal.

Chelsea’s Anfield Woes Persist

Chelsea’s struggles against Liverpool continue, with this defeat extending their winless streak against the Reds to 10 matches. The sequence includes painful losses in both the 2022 Carabao Cup and FA Cup finals, and another Wembley defeat last season.

Maresca can take some positives from the performance, particularly the impressive display by Moises Caicedo in midfield, but Chelsea’s inability to capitalize on possession or maintain control after equalizing will be frustrating for the manager. Cole Palmer, while showing glimpses of creativity, couldn’t quite impact the game as he might have hoped.

Despite some bright spells, Chelsea once again left Anfield disappointed as Liverpool emerged victorious.

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