Liverpool vs Crystal Palace — The Shield Slips Away

At Wembley, Liverpool kicked off against FA Cup winners Crystal Palace, hoping to add another trophy before the league begins.

Hugo Ekitike opened the scoring early, and Jeremie Frimpong restored Liverpool’s lead after Mateta’s penalty had levelled it. But with just minutes left, Ismaïla Sarr punished the Reds with an equaliser — sending the game to penalties.

Then came the twist: Dean Henderson turned into Palace’s hero, saving spot-kicks from Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott. Justin Devenny sealed it for Palace, giving them their first-ever Community Shield.

Takeaway: Liverpool looked dangerous but shaky in key moments. Palace’s composure under pressure could make them a bigger problem for top sides this season.

 

Chelsea vs AC Milan — Blues on Fire Before Kick-Off

Over at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea wrapped up pre-season in style with a 4–1 demolition of AC Milan.

An own goal from Andrei Coubis and a powerful header from Joao Pedro put the Blues in control. Then substitute Estevao won a penalty, confidently dispatched by Liam Delap — who went on to grab a second from Andrey Santos’ assist. Milan only managed a late consolation through Youssouf Fofana.

Standouts:

Joao Pedro — now on a scoring streak, proving he’ll be crucial this season.

Liam Delap — a bench option turning into a genuine goal threat.

Moises Caicedo — ran the midfield like a general.

Takeaway: Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea look sharp, balanced, and hungry. If this performance is a sign of things to come, fans might finally see consistency.

The Bigger Picture

Liverpool will need to fix defensive lapses quickly before the Premier League opener. Chelsea, meanwhile, look ready to explode out of the gates.

If this weekend’s games are a preview, buckle up — the season ahead is going to keep us talking.