It may only be two days old, but 2022 could have already witnessed its Goal of the Year.
Mateo Kovacic nailed a brilliant long-range volley in Sunday’s hectic Premier League battle between Chelsea and Liverpool.
Kovacic’s goal came in the 42nd minute, at which point Chelsea were 2-0 down following goals from Sadio Mane and Mo Salah.
Marcos Alonso whipped in a free-kick, which Liverpool keeper Caoimhin Kelleher punched clear. Kelleher’s punch was a strong one and sent the ball 25 yards, but Kovacic sent it back with interest.
Kovacic kept his left foot planted straight as he pinged the ball past Kelleher with a satisfying swish.
To make the goal even more aesthetically pleasing, it flicked the woodwork on its way in.
The start of Chelsea’s fightback…?
Kovacic got their first goal of the match with an absolute stunner! ? pic.twitter.com/EvhnFEnTHF
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 2, 2022
What a goal! kovacic! Nominasi puskas gak nih ? ? pic.twitter.com/5TH0aFzljH
— BJL-3 (@AssyfRizal) January 2, 2022
Hit it like Kovacic ???pic.twitter.com/6MS7ZNsvfm
— ?????? (@PackedDon) January 2, 2022