This archive report was first published on 11 July 2019.
Senegal's run to the semifinals of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations has come at a cost for Liverpool, with star striker Sadio Mane set to miss the Reds' first Premier League match of the season.
On Wednesday, July 10, 2019, Senegal beat Benin to confirm their place in the semifinals of the tournament, despite Mane being denied two goals by VAR.
As Senegal continues their hunt for international silverware, it is a big concern for Liverpool, who will have to do without their star striker in the English Premier League curtain-raiser on Friday, August 9 at Anfield.
The newly-promoted Norwich City will visit the Kop as they bid to kick start their EPL survival battle after doing well in the Championship the previous season.
Liverpool, however, should have enough personnel in Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, and the backing of the home fans to win the tie.
Mane's absence will be felt, as he clinched the EPL golden boot last season alongside Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal and teammate Salah, and played an instrumental role in the Reds' Champions League triumph.
