THE INTENSIFIED REPORT

Liverpool have claimed the Carabao Cup with a victory over Chelsea after a lengthy penalty shoot-out which ended 11-10 in favor of Liverpool. Chelsea's goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga missed from the spot.

Liverpool Star Sadio Mane was crowned the Man of the Match as Senegal marched into the finals of the Afcon 2021. Senegal defeated a relentless Burkina Faso team 3-1 in the first semi-final of the ongoing African Cup of Nations in Cameroon. Senegal will face the winner of the second semi-final between Cameroon and Egypt in the Finals on Sunday.

Steven Gerrard has been appointed new coach of Aston Villa following the dismissal of Dean Smith, the club announced on Thursday. Gerrard guided Glasgow Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title last season, finishing the campaign undefeated in the league. The 41-year-old has attracted many admirers in the game for his work in transforming the fortunes of the Glasgow giants while also implementing an attractive, attacking style of football. Gerrard, who enjoyed a glittering playing career with Liverpool and England, joined Rangers in 2018 following a spell as an Academy Coach at Liverpool.

 After two wins in two matches, Leicester City are at the summit of a very fresh English Premier League Table. Leicester walloped Burnley  4-2 at home, to maintain their perfect start to the campaign. Frank Lampard's Chelsea succumbed to pressure from Champions Liverpool, as they were beaten 2-0 at home. Two goals from Senegalese forward Sadio Mane, ensured that the Champions remained unbeaten after two games. Manchester United were stunned at home by Crystal Palace. The Reds lost 3-1 to Crystal Palace, a result that has called for more signing to be made before the transfer window closes. James Rodriguez inspired rejuvenated Everton side to a 5-2 home win against newly promoted West Brom. Calvert-Lewin bagged a hatrick in that encounter. Everon are second on the log. Jose Mourinho side eased past The Saints, in a game that ended 5-2 in favour of Tottenham Hotspurs. Son bagged four goals in that encounter. Arsenal, Brighton and Leeds also secured maximum points in their

Liverpool has acquired Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich in a deal worth £25m. The player has penned a contract with the Reds until 2024. Bayern will receive £20m upfront from Liverpool and £5m extra depending on the Reds' success.