Virgil van Dijk admits Liverpool gifted Chelsea too much space during their Super Cup victory on Wednesday evening.
The Champions League holders struggled in the first half and fell behind following Olivier Giroud’s goal.
Sadio Mane equalised in the early stages of the second half and appeared to score the winner for Liverpool in extra time.
But a penalty was awarded to Chelsea after Adrian fouled Tammy Abraham in the box and Jorginho stepped up to force the match to penalties.
Liverpool scored all five of their penalties before Abraham saw his effort saved by Adrian.
Chelsea had spells of dominance over Liverpool during the game and Van Dijk admits his side were leaving too much space in the opening 45 minutes.
‘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.’
