Liverpool secured a 3-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur to advance in the Carabao Cup, deepening the challenges facing Spurs as they navigate a difficult start to their season. The match took place at Anfield, with both clubs making significant changes to their lineups after recent goalless draws in Premier League play.
Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham side entered the fixture without a win in their first four league matches this season, heightening the pressure to keep their hopes alive for silverware. The Tottenham squad featured eight alterations from their last league outing, including the return of Mohammed Kudus in his first start since January following a thigh injury. In contrast, Liverpool fielded a significantly rotated lineup, retaining only defender Ronald Araujo from their weekend squad and introducing young players Trey Nyoni and James McConnell, who had limited recent experience starting for the club.
Tottenham’s more experienced roster created early scoring opportunities. Lucas Bergvall was presented with a chance in the 11th minute but was denied by Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamaradashvili. Liverpool then began to find their rhythm, with winger Lewis Koumas testing the visiting keeper before setting up the opening goal. At the 21-minute mark, Alexis Mac Allister capitalized on a loose ball following a run by Koumas, placing the ball into the top corner from the edge of the penalty area.
Cody Gakpo, a player Spurs had pursued during the summer transfer window, played a key role in orchestrating the first goal, underscoring the impact his absence may have had on Tottenham’s attacking struggles. Despite Kudus’ presence, Spurs were unable to convert several promising opportunities, including a wasted chance early in the first half when Kudus fired a cross from Destiny Udogie over the bar during a counter-attack.
Tottenham managed to reduce the deficit through Conor Gallagher’s header in the 69th minute, injecting some hope of a comeback. However, Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai delivered a decisive moment with a 30-yard volley, effectively sealing the outcome and their progression in the competition.
The result leaves Tottenham’s ambitions largely dependent on the FA Cup, as their difficulties under De Zerbi persist. Liverpool’s victory demonstrated the depth and resilience of their squad, overcoming rotation challenges to secure a knockout win on home ground.