In a pulsating clash at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea and Liverpool showcased their prowess while shedding light on their persistent pursuit of Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo, valued at £110 million.
Despite Liverpool British record bid for Caicedo, the player's inclination suggests a probable move to Chelsea is on the horizon, according to reports.
This enthralling encounter displayed the attacking brilliance of both squads, yet the defensive frailties underscored the allure of Caicedo as a coveted target.
Liverpool assumed early dominance, as Mohamed Salah's effort rattled the crossbar. The Egyptian then orchestrated a sublime pass that allowed Luis Diaz to slot home the opener after 18 minutes.
In their inaugural Premier League match under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea staged a comeback. New signing Axel Disasi capitalised on Liverpool's failure to clear a set-piece, netting an equaliser from six yards.
As the game went on, both teams fashioned more opportunities, with Liverpool's Alisson denying Ben Chilwell and Nicolas Jackson and in the end, they settled for a draw.
'Liverpool helped Chelsea get back in the game - Klopp'
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp told Sky Sports: "The start was pretty convincing, we scored two wonderful goals, and one was disallowed for offside.
"We opened up the door for Chelsea, we lost the ball in moments where it was difficult to prepare for it. It gave the game a different direction so we were not in control of the game.
"The second half was more open and had more chances for Chelsea but we showed up. It was really intense for both teams and it's a point at Chelsea.
"From my point of view, it looked like we helped Chelsea get back in the game.
"Our defensive problems today had nothing to do with characteristics of the midfielders, they are a bit more offensive but all of these boys can do what we want them to do.
"We were too deep as a formation and gave the half spaces away. It's really ok, today didn't decide where our season will go. let's be positive, this team deserves so much faith and I am really looking forward to the season."
When asked about any news on Brighton midfield ace Moises Caicedo, the German replied: "No news at all."
On Mo Salah's reaction to being substituted, Klopp said: "I can understand because if Mo scored it would have been a new record for goals scored in the opening game but I didn't think about that. We needed stability and we needed fresh legs. It was super intense for everybody. That's all I can say about it, his reaction was absolutely okay. When I sub a player and he is jumping into my arms at 1-1 and he is a striker who thinks he will score, I would be really surprised so that's absolutely fine."
'Chelsea deserved to win - Pochettino'
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino explained to BBC's MOTD: "The Premier League after four years [away], it is a fantastic way to start the season. I enjoyed the match a lot."
Quizzed whether the draw was a fair result, the ex-PSG boss said: "I don't believe it is. I think we deserved a little bit more overall. We feel pleased, but at the same time disappointed because we wanted to win and we deserved to win, but it is only the beginning.
"We have created a very good way to work here and that is important. It is about belief and about work and trusting each other. The connection from day one has been fantastic.
"The fans were always with us. Even in the difficult moment they were there, they never gave up and always believed in the team and the team felt the energy from the crowd.
"It was difficult from the beginning but how we grew in the game and how we found the way to play and how we started to dominate and push Liverpool deeper and deeper, I am very pleased about everything.
"We need to grow every single day."
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