Liverpool advanced to the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Southampton at a rain-soaked St Mary’s Stadium. Despite an improved second-half performance from the Saints, the holders held firm to maintain their quest for a second consecutive league cup title.
The match marked a difficult period for Southampton, who were playing just days after the sacking of manager Russell Martin. Under interim boss Simon Rusk, Southampton showed a new level of determination, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Reds’ early dominance.
Reds Dominate Early, Saints Fight Back
Liverpool’s early pressure paid off in the 24th minute when Darwin Nunez capitalized on a deflected pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold. The ball fell kindly for Nunez, who slotted it past Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy to give the visitors the lead.
Barely 10 minutes later, Liverpool doubled their advantage through Harvey Elliott. A well-timed pass from Cody Gakpo saw Elliott take a touch before firing his first goal of the season into the bottom corner, helped by a deflection off Ryan Manning. The first half was largely one-sided, with Southampton offering little in attack. Liverpool had further chances, including a brilliant save from McCarthy to deny Alexis Mac Allister.
Southampton Respond in the Second Half
The second half saw Southampton show more fight, with interim boss Rusk making attacking changes. The Saints pulled one back in the 59th minute when Cameron Archer, who had been recalled to the starting lineup, curled a fine shot into the far corner to halve the deficit.
The momentum shifted briefly as Southampton pressed for an equalizer. Archer had a golden chance to level the scores just two minutes later, but Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher made a crucial save to deny him.
With the match drawing to a close, Southampton came close again. New attacking additions Kamaldeen Sulemana and Paul Onuachu combined to threaten Liverpool’s defense, but Onuachu fluffed his lines from close range. At the other end, Federico Chiesa almost sealed the win for Liverpool, but Taylor Harwood-Bellis cleared his shot off the line.
Referee Decisions Leave Saints Fuming
As the match entered six minutes of added time, Southampton fans were left frustrated after appeals for a penalty were waved away. Midfielder Mateus Fernandes appeared to be brought down by Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah, but referee Simon Hooper opted not to award a penalty, with VAR unavailable to review the incident.
Despite the late pressure, Liverpool held on to secure the win and a place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals. Southampton’s search for a permanent manager continues, with the team sitting at the bottom of the Premier League after a tumultuous season.
Liverpool’s Trophy Defense Continues
The result leaves Liverpool in a strong position to defend their Carabao Cup crown. Manager Arne Slot, watching from the press box due to a one-match touchline ban, will be pleased with his side’s resilience, though the second-half scare was a reminder that Liverpool must remain focused if they are to lift the trophy once again this season.
With Liverpool sitting top of both the Premier League and the Champions League, this win further cements their status as one of Europe’s elite teams. Their Carabao Cup journey will continue, and many will be watching to see if they can secure another piece of silverware to add to their growing collection.