Here is everything you need to know about the match:
History-
The 2019 UEFA Super Cup will be its 44th edition. Milan and Barcelona are the most successful teams in the competition's history, winning it a total of 5 times each, followed by Real Madrid with four victories. The current holders are Atletico Madrid, who beat their cross town rivals 4-2 in last year's edition, winning it for the third time, the same as Liverpool.
Rules:
At present, the rules in the Super Cup are the same as any other UEFA club competition. It is a single match 90 minute final, contested at a neutral venue. If the scores are level at the end of 90 minutes, two additional 15-minute periods of extra time are played. If there is no winner at the end of the second period of extra time, a penalty shoot-out determines the winner. Each team can name a 23 player squad, from which 11 will start the match. Of the 12 remaining players, a total of 3 may be substituted throughout the match; a fourth substitute is permitted, only if the match enters extra time.
Status:
The match between the two European champions is often looked down upon by many who do not see the title as a significant honour. However, it is still a professional trophy and will undoubtedly boost the winning team's morale before the season gets underway full tilt. It is an important game to win to get a good start to the season, both domestically and on the European stage. Jurgen Klopp, being the thorough competitor he is, will surely look to add another trophy to Liverpool's cabinet. Meanwhile, Chelsea's legend new manager, Frank Lampard will look to spoil the Merseysiders' party. His side will be looking to cause an upset and bring some cheers in London ahead of what is expected to be a difficult season for the Blues.
The match:
The 2019 UEFA Super Cup will be played at Istanbul's Besiktas Park tonight, 14th August, at 8pm BST. Stephanie Frappart will be refereeing the game, in what will be the first occasion the match will have all-women team of officials.
Liverpool are already off to a good start, winning 4-1 at home against Norwich in the opening match the new Premier League season. With Mo Salah already firing, Van Dijk and co will look to rout through an inexperienced and young Chelsea side. Senegalese star Sadio Mane is also nearing full fitness, after his exploits in the African Cup of Nations. Klopp may use this match to give him a run out. However, a major cause of concern for the Reds will be the injury goalie Alisson suffered against Norwich, getting replaced by new signing Adrian. Klopp will hope it isn't a serious injury, especially on the back of Alisson's brilliant debut season at the club.
Meanwhile, Frank Lampard's new look Chelsea will be looking forward to better things after their disastrous 0-4 thrashing against Manchester United away at Old Trafford, in what was Lampard's first league game as manager. They have sold their most important player in recent years, Eden Hazard, to Real Madrid, as well as experienced defender David Luiz to Arsenal. Although American star Christiam Pulisic has joined, along with Mateo Kovacic(permanent), the team looks inexperienced and lacks depth to compete against the top sides. They will be looking to stop Liverpool's free flowing attackers to cause havoc, and need their more experienced players to step up, especially after the horrendous first game.
