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Speaking before the UEFA Super Cup final showpiece between Liverpool and Chelsea, Liverpool star defender Virgil van Dijk revealed that he was expecting a difficult game from Frank Lampard’s side who had lost 4-0 to Manchester United on Sunday.

Indeed it was a different ball game in Istanbul as Chelsea looked a different animal at the Besiktas Park Stadium as both sides played out an entertaining end to end football.

After 120 minutes of intense football with the scores tied at 2-2, it was Liverpool who eventually won the game 5-4 on penalties as Tammy Abraham missed his spot kick to hand Liverpool a hard fought victory.

Van Dijk admitted afterwards that it was a very difficult game and hailed Adrian for eventually becoming the hero.

“It was a good game to watch for a neutral, but it was tough for both sides,” said the Dutch defender.

“They played well and we had moments of good football, especially at the beginning of the second half.

“We put them under pressure and created chances. We played a higher line and won the second balls.

“At the beginning the gaps were too big. I said before the game that anything can happen in a final and in the end the penalties decided the game.

“I told Adrian before penalties he could be the hero tonight and he did it so I’m happy for him and for the club.”