Liverpool began their English Premier League campaign with an away game against Stoke City, yesterday.
Contrary to the side who were humiliated 6-1 the last time these two teams met, Liverpool’s starting eleven included new additions: notably Nathaniel Clyne, James Milner, Christian Benteke, and 18-year-old Joe Gomez.
Instead, a familiar face turned out to be the hero of the day.
As the clock ticked down and a goalless draw seemed to be the likely result, Philippe Coutinho stepped up and proved to be the difference.
Last season’s Player of the Year for the club rifled a trademark curling drive into the top corner – as seen against Southampton, Bolton and Man City last season – to send the travelling Kop wild.
It was a sensational strike from the 23-year-old – otherwise a decent performance from the whole team – but the Brazilian showed why he is the special player he is, by coming up trumps at a time when it looked so unlikely.
Finally, revenge was served, with a little sprinkle of Brazilian magic dust.
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