Philippe Coutinho was instrumental in his side’s 3-1 victory at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, with his brace helping Jurgen Klopp pick up his first Premier League win.
The Brazilian, who has struggled to find consistency this season, clawed his side back into the game in first-half stoppage time, before completing the turnaround in the second half to set Liverpool on their way to their first win at Stamford Bridge in four years.
The home side made a lightning-quick start when Cesar Azpilicueta’s cross found Ramires, whose header was too strong for Simon Mignolet to keep out.
The Reds failed to create a real meaningful opportunity in the first half and looked set to head into the break 1-0 down.
However, referee Mark Clattenberg allowed an additional 30 seconds of play in first-half stoppage time, which was capitalised on by Coutinho.
After receiving from fellow Brazilian Roberto Firmino, the 23-year-old cleverly took the ball onto his left side and beautifully struck the ball beyond Asmir Begovic.
https://twitter.com/ALI_LFC_/status/660451996026187776
The added 30 seconds infuriated Jose Mourinho as Coutinho’s immaculate finish sent the Reds into the break on level terms.
The second half wasn’t without controversy either as both Diego Costa and Lucas were lucky to remain on the pitch. Liverpool could sense the uncertainty in an out-of-form Chelsea side and brought on substitute Christian Benteke to change things up.
The Belgian made an immediate impact as his header found Coutinho. The Brazilian took control of the ball, taking it onto his right this time and, with the aid of a deflection, completed the turnaround.
Liverpool added a third courtesy of Benteke who was equally influential in the 3-1 win.
Coutinho has now scored three times in the Premier League, as well providing two assists, but Jurgen Klopp will be hoping that he continues to produce on a regular basis.
So for his two goals that turned the game on its head and gave Liverpool their first win at Stamford Bridge since 2011, Philippe Coutinho gets the nod this week.
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