Kepa wins it for Blues

Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga

Kepa Arrizabalaga was the unlikely hero as Chelsea started the new season as they ended the last with a European trophy by beating Villarreal 6-5 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to win the UEFA Super Cup in Belfast.

Chelsea had last won the UEFA Super Cup in 1998.

The Spaniard, who has lost his place as number one since joining the club for a world record fee for a goalkeeper in 2018, was introduced late in extra-time as a substitute for the shootout by Thomas Tuchel.

Chelsea players celebrate with the UEFA Super Cup after their win over Villarreal on Wednesday. Pic/AP; PTI

Kepa famously refused to be replaced by former Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri in a League Cup final defeat to Manchester City two years ago. But this time he rewarded his manager's faith with saves from Aissa Mandi and Raul Albiol.

Well-hatched plan

"It was not spontaneous," said Tuchel who explained the plan had been hatched in the FA Cup last season. "We talked about it with the goalkeepers after the first cup game against Barnsley. Kepa has the best percentage at saving penalties, the analysing guys and goalkeeping coaches showed me the data. We spoke to the players that this could happen when we play in knockout games. It's fantastic how Edouard [Mendy] accepted it. There is proof that Kepa is better in this discipline. They're team players. Edouard does not show the pride to not step off the field. He was happy to do it for the team and take this for the team."

In-form Ziyech

Hakim Ziyech had a bittersweet evening as he continued his fine pre-season form into competitive action with the opening goal. Marcos Alonso fed Kai Havertz down the right and from the German's low cross, Ziyech swept home.

However, the Moroccan was forced off before half-time in a sling by a shoulder injury. Villarreal were the dominant force in the second-half as Chelsea physically faded after their flying start. Tuchel turned to his bench to stem the tide as Mason Mount, Jorginho and Andreas Christensen were introduced. But the Spaniards got their equaliser when Gerard Moreno played a one-two with Boulaye Dia before firing high past Mendy.

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