Liverpool advanced in the Carabao Cup with a 3-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield, fueled by strong performances from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo. The match, held on Tuesday evening, marked manager Andoni Iraola’s first domestic win at the Liverpool home ground, following a recent European triumph.
Iraola made 10 changes to the Liverpool lineup, with several younger players given opportunities. Nonetheless, Liverpool displayed cohesion and attacking intent throughout, capitalizing on moments of Tottenham’s profligacy in front of goal.
Mac Allister opened the scoring in the 21st minute, curling a shot past Tottenham goalkeeper Martin Dubravka after a well-constructed move involving stand-in captain Joe Gomez, Gakpo, and Rio Ngumoha. This marked Mac Allister’s second goal in as many starts following recent contract uncertainty, as the Argentine midfielder has appeared motivated to prove his worth amid stalled contract negotiations with Liverpool. His performance has notably improved compared to last season, displaying greater energy and precision.
Gakpo, who has also been linked with moves away from Liverpool over the summer but remained at the club, doubled the lead shortly after halftime. He finished emphatically after another assist from Mac Allister and a contributing role from Ngumoha. Gakpo has accumulated two goals and three assists in Liverpool's first five games this season, highlighting his impact under Iraola’s management.
Tottenham struggled to find the net early despite a few clear chances. Lucas Bergvall, Destiny Udogie, and Mohammed Kudus each missed opportunities that might have changed the match's momentum. Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi faces mounting pressure, having seen his team scoreless in their first four Premier League fixtures. His side went behind and were forced to chase the game.
The visitors reduced the deficit on 81 minutes when Conor Gallagher headed in from a corner, benefiting from an error by Liverpool’s goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who had earlier made significant saves. However, Liverpool restored their two-goal cushion late in the match with a spectacular strike from Dominik Szoboszlai. The Hungarian midfielder controlled the ball from approximately 30 yards before unleashing a powerful volley, a candidate for goal of the season.
Tottenham pressed late for a penalty when Alexander Isak’s shot appeared to strike Tosin Adarabioyo’s arm, but no VAR is used in the Carabao Cup until the semi-finals, so the appeal was denied.
Liverpool’s victory underscores the resurgence of Mac Allister and Gakpo, two players who faced uncertain futures during the summer transfer window but have since delivered crucial contributions. Meanwhile, Tottenham’s goalless streak remains a concern for De Zerbi as his team seeks to regain confidence.