Diego Costa and Martin Skrtel renewed their rivalry during the Chelsea Legends vs Liverpool Legends charity match at Stamford Bridge
Diego Costa and Martin Skrtel
Diego Costa clashed with Martin Skrtel during the Liverpool Legends' match at Stamford Bridge
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Diego Costa demonstrated his combustible temperament during Chelsea Legends' encounter with Liverpool Legends, confronting former rival Martin Skrtel at Stamford Bridge.
What began as a charitable fixture rapidly intensified following Skrtel's sliding challenge from behind. Despite winning the ball cleanly, Costa reacted furiously and immediately approached him.
Costa subsequently became the first player to receive a caution, shoving the Reds icon Skrtel to the ground. During the interval, Eden Hazard, who gave a brief pitch-side interview, was questioned about Costa's behaviour.
"Of course. He is still the same, we all saw it," Hazard observed. Back in 2015, Costa escaped sanctions after apparently treading on Skrtel during Chelsea's 3-1 defeat to Liverpool.
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TV replays at the time seemed to capture him lashing out at the former Reds centre-back.
Nevertheless, former referee Mark Clattenburg, who observed the incident, omitted it from his match report, resulting in no subsequent disciplinary measures.
The fundraising encounter at Stamford Bridge represented the second legends fixture between both clubs this year.
During their earlier March meeting, Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory, with Peter Crouch netting twice and delighting supporters with his trademark robot celebration.
Chelsea's squad this time around featured club icons including John Terry, Hazard and Costa.
Martin Skrtel and Diego Costa
Diego Costa squared up to Martin Skrtel during Liverpool Legends' match against Chelsea Legends.
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Roberto Di Matteo managed the Blues legends, whilst Liverpool was guided by Ian Rush, John Aldridge, Phil Thompson, and Sammy Lee.
The match was to raise funds for the Chelsea Foundation and the Chelsea Players' Trust, while Liverpool have confirmed that proceeds will also support the LFC Foundation's initiatives.
Ultimately, a late goal from Ryan Babel sealed the deal, with Liverpool achieving a double victory over Chelsea this year in Legends friendlies.
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