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Virgil van Dijk's decisive header steered Liverpool to a nail-biting victory, but the defender saw a goal controversially chalked off.
The drama unfolded when Wataru Endo's block on Levi Colwill sparked a debate, but it wasn't the obstacle that cleared Van Dijk's path to glory.
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17:29 - 26.02.2024
John Terry re-uploads naked photo holding the Carabao Cup before Chelsea’s loss to Liverpool
In a display of eccentric nostalgia, John Terry has stirred up the Carabao Cup final buzz by sharing a rather cheeky throwback.
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15:48 - 26.02.2024
Liverpool to Receive Paltry Sum for Beating Chelsea in EFL Cup Final
Liverpool beat Chelsea to lift the EFL Cup trophy, here is how much they made from their historic victory
Instead, it was an intense aerial battle with Ben Chilwell, one that Van Dijk won fair and square, propelling Liverpool into the lead.
This moment underscored a game where strategy met skill, with no complaints from Chelsea’s camp indicating a recognition of the play's legitimacy.
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Strategic Mastery or Controversial Play?
Premier League teams are no strangers to intricate set-piece routines, often bringing in specialists to craft these game-changing moments.
Endo's block, a common tactic, became the centre of attention when VAR intervened, suggesting his offside position and interference played a crucial role in the goal's formation.
This interpretation, however, seemed a stretch, especially in a cup final's high-stakes environment, sparking debate over the decision's validity as reported by Daily Mail.
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The Final Verdict
Amid pre-match tensions, with Mauricio Pochettino urging a level playing field against Liverpool in light of Jurgen Klopp’s departure, the game's outcome felt like a twist of fate.
Despite VAR's intervention, justice prevailed as Van Dijk's late header in extra time sealed Liverpool's victory, leaving no room for dispute. This win not only highlighted Liverpool's resilience but also raised questions about VAR's impact on the game's spirit.
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