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Chelsea came so close to victory against Liverpool in the UEFA Super Cup final on Wednesday.

The Blues took the reigning European champions to penalties after the game was still locked at 2-2 following 120 minutes of enthralling action. It was a great advert for the Premier League, with both sides performing well under pressure.

Frank Lampard made three changes to the side that started against Manchester United on Sunday, with Olivier Giroud, Christian Pulisic and N'Golo Kante coming in for Tammy Abraham, Ross Barkley and Mason Mount respectively.

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Striker Giroud put in a positive display for the Stamford Bridge outfit in Istanbul, and deserves the chance to start once more against Leicester City this coming weekend.

The France international scored the opening goal with a composed finish from Pulisic's assist, and was a constant threat to the Reds' backline. Overall, he had four shots, the joint-most of any of his teammates along with Pedro. Two were on target, including the one that hit the back of the net of course.

He also proved to be a useful team player as well, creating two chances for the players around him. His 77% pass success rate could have been better, but against a strong Liverpool side, up front on his own against the colossal Virgil van Dijk, it's hardly something to turn your nose up at.

One of the former Arsenal man's main strengths is his aerial ability, and that quality was on display on Wednesday. Of the 30 players who took part in the match, only van Dijk bettered the four aerial duels Giroud won. By being so strong in the air, he is able to bring others in to play, as we saw on several occasions during this match.

The 32-year-old was replaced by Abraham in the 73rd minute and, once again, the youngster failed to impress, receiving a WhoScored rating of just 6.43. He may have a big future ahead of him, but right now, Giroud is the man who has merited his shot at leading the line.

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