In a thrilling charity match, Liverpool Legends emerged victorious against Chelsea Legends.
Anfield witnessed the return of beloved icon Steven Gerrard, headlining a star-studded Liverpool lineup.
Chelsea`s squad also boasted legendary figures, including Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Gianfranco Zola, creating a spectacle for fans.
Peter Crouch, entering as a substitute for Liverpool, proved to be the game-changer, netting two goals in the second half to clinch the win against Chelsea.
All proceeds from this memorable match are dedicated to благотворительности, benefiting the LFC Foundation, Forever Reds, Chelsea FC Foundation, and Chelsea Players’ Trust.
- Key Match Details:
- Match Highlights:
- Kuyt “very glad to be back” at Anfield
- Dream Anfield Return for Crouch
- Touch of class
- Main man speaking after match
- Three amigos mastermind win
- Fire burns within former Blues’ skipper
- Robot needing no oil to perform
- Dowie makes history in Anfield win
- Fans glad to see Brazilian back
- Rolling back the years at Anfield
- Lightning does not strike twice
- Veterans make you question retirement
- Forward rolling back the years
- Super Sami back home again
- Reds remain unbeaten with win
- Fans head home with smile
- Skipper still craves to be on that pitch
- Robot needing no oil to perform
- Legends step up to the plate
- FT: Liverpool Legends 2-0 Chelsea Legends
- Liverpool Legends 2-0 Chelsea Legends
Key Match Details:
- Charity: Proceeds to LFC Foundation and Chelsea FC Foundations
- Notable Liverpool Players: Dudek, Hyypia, Gerrard, Kuyt, Babel, Crouch
- Notable Chelsea Players: Cudicini, Zola, Hasselbaink, Makelele
Match Highlights:
Kuyt “very glad to be back” at Anfield
Dirk Kuyt expressed his delight to club media post-match: “It’s always a pleasure to return to Liverpool, especially for such a meaningful event, playing before a packed Anfield, feeling incredible support for a worthy cause – it’s always amazing, and winning never gets old! Another victory makes it a great day for everyone.”
“For us former players, it’s truly special to remain connected to the club and feel so welcomed as part of this large family. Liverpool Football Club sets an example for other clubs in fostering such a family atmosphere.”
“Of course, when Liverpool competes in any match, like this season where we’re eagerly supporting them to win the league, we’re always excited for their future. But days like today truly embody what Liverpool is about – unity. I believe all former players want to contribute.”
“Playing at Anfield is fantastic, but it’s also about giving back to Liverpool, which has given us so much. Now, together with the fans, we have the chance to give back to the community, making it truly special.”
Dream Anfield Return for Crouch
Peter Crouch made a sensational impact off the bench in the second half, demonstrating his enduring talent to his former teammates.
Crouch broke the scoreless tie after halftime, heading in a fantastic cross from Florent Sinama Pongolle.
In classic “Crouchy” fashion, he celebrated his return goal at Anfield with his iconic robot dance.
Just 11 minutes later, the former England international doubled his score with a skillful lob over Rob Green.
Touch of class
Following yesterday`s legends game, Gianfranco Zola was seen gifting a fan one of his boots.
A kind gesture from a distinguished player.
Main man speaking after match
Speaking with LFC TV, goalscorer Peter Crouch shared his feelings about the match against Chelsea.
“Yeah, it’s quite emotional, really. Scoring a couple of goals in front of family and friends is amazing.”
“So many kids asked me to do the robot on the way here.”
“Playing alongside Stevie again, and my son seeing me play football for the first time, it’s been a great day, especially for the foundation.”
Three amigos mastermind win
Liverpool Legends were managed by a trio of iconic figures: Kenny Dalglish, John Barnes, and John Aldridge.
This legendary management team guided their squad to victory this afternoon.
Beyond Crouch’s two goals, the bench was certainly packed with potential for more scores, thanks to these three managerial legends.
Fire burns within former Blues’ skipper
Dennis Wise, despite his age, still displayed his characteristic passion for competition against opponents.
He reacted strongly to a robust challenge from Spearing on the Chelsea midfielder.
His frustration was even more evident when Babel outpaced him, leaving him no chance of catching up.
Robot needing no oil to perform
With his family in attendance, Peter Crouch’s two goals today were clearly deeply meaningful for him.
He scored a powerful header into the top corner, followed by a delicate chip – both showcasing his enduring talent.
His second-half performance made him a strong contender for man of the match.
Fans were also thrilled to see Crouch perform his signature robot celebration after scoring.
Dowie makes history in Anfield win
Natasha Dowie achieved a historic milestone this afternoon, becoming the first female footballer to represent Liverpool Legends.
The former Liverpool Ladies striker, with 67 appearances and 46 goals for the club, made a significant impact.
Dowie looked comfortable on the pitch, despite jokingly expressing concern about a possible red card after her first challenge against Claude Makelele.
Fortunately, she avoided a sending-off and enjoyed the experience of playing alongside Liverpool greats.
Fans glad to see Brazilian back
Fabio Aurelio received a warm welcome from everyone at Anfield.
It was less than a year ago when he suffered serious injuries – five cracked ribs and a punctured lung – in a previous Liverpool Legends versus Ajax Legends match.
He spent a week in Aintree University Hospital and couldn`t return home for three weeks afterward.
Despite this, he showed remarkable fitness and energy throughout today’s game.
His excellent pass to Sinama Pongolle on the right wing set up Peter Crouch’s first goal this afternoon.
Rolling back the years at Anfield
The first half of the Liverpool Legends versus Chelsea Legends match was initially slow-paced.
However, after halftime, The Reds seemed to find a new level of energy and intensity.
Players like Sinama Pongolle, Gonzalez, Aurelio, Gerrard, Kuyt, and Crouch all elevated their game.
Spearing brought dynamism to the midfield, engaging in some spirited duels with Chelsea players.
This performance highlighted why these Legends matches consistently draw large crowds to Anfield.
Lightning does not strike twice
When Peter Crouch first signed for Liverpool, he endured a 19-game goal drought, even missing a penalty.
However, for Liverpool Legends, he made an immediate impact with a debut brace.
Following his impressive second-half display, many Liverpool supporters would likely welcome him as a valuable squad addition for the current season.
Veterans make you question retirement
Professional football involves much more than just playing.
However, watching players like Peter Crouch, Ryan Babel, Yossi Benayoun, and Steven Gerrard perform at a high level makes one wonder if they could still compete professionally.
Luckily for them, Wrexham had a game at the same time, or Ryan Reynolds might have been on the phone!
Forward rolling back the years
Florent Sinama Pongolle delivered an outstanding performance for The Reds against Chelsea.
The 41-year-old provided a crucial assist for the opening goal, delivering a perfectly weighted cross for Crouch to head home.
He consistently troubled The Blues, demonstrating his enduring skills on the big stage.
He did show his displeasure at being studded by an opponent while on the ground.
Super Sami back home again
Sami Hyypia, at 52, returned to the heart of Liverpool`s defense this afternoon.
Sporting a new brown hair color, Hyypia maintained his composure and control despite his age.
Known for his reading of the game rather than raw speed, he remains a vital asset to the Liverpool Legends setup.
Reds remain unbeaten with win
Liverpool Legends extended their unbeaten streak with a convincing victory over Chelsea.
Sander Westerveld made a key save for The Reds, impressively stopping Robert Huth from close range.
However, the main talking point of today’s victory will undoubtedly be Peter Crouch’s Legends debut, marked by his two goals.
Fans head home with smile
The international break can often be a dull period for football fans.
Liverpool and Chelsea delivered an entertaining spectacle this afternoon before a packed Anfield crowd.
Witnessing a two-goal victory for their team, and seeing legends from both clubs in action, made for a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Skipper still craves to be on that pitch
Steven Gerrard may not have scored, but his passion for wearing the Liverpool jersey and playing at Anfield was evident.
He remains a true club legend and was also a strong contender for man of the match.
He might be slightly annoyed that Aurelio took that free-kick; it could have been the perfect finish to his day.
Now back in the city and taking a break from management, fans will eagerly anticipate seeing him in more legends matches.
Robot needing no oil to perform
With his family watching, Peter Crouch`s two goals today clearly meant a lot to him.
He scored a commanding header into the top corner and a delicate chip – both classic Crouch finishes.
His second-half performance positioned him as a leading candidate for the man of the match award.
The crowd was also delighted to see Crouch perform his signature robot dance after scoring.
Legends step up to the plate
Former goalkeeper Westerveld, speaking to LFC TV post-match, described the experience as exceptional.
FT: Liverpool Legends 2-0 Chelsea Legends
The referee signaled the end of the match.
Peter Crouch`s two goals secured the victory for Liverpool at Anfield.
The nearly 60,000 fans in attendance were certainly well-entertained.
Liverpool Legends 2-0 Chelsea Legends
90. Benayoun attacks the Chelsea defense.
He attempts a one-two with Crouch, but Chelsea manages to intercept the pass.
A goal then would have been a spectacular way to conclude the game.