Dominik Szoboszlai delivered a breathtaking strike that capped a 3-1 triumph for Liverpool over Tottenham Hotspur in the third round of the Carabao Cup at Anfield, sealing the Reds' progression in the competition. The match unfolded with Liverpool taking the initiative early on. Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring by curling a high, precise shot past Tottenham goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, giving the home side a deserved lead before the hour mark.
Shortly after, Cody Gakpo doubled Liverpool's advantage with a powerful finish that showcased the team's attacking fluency and left the Kop roaring with approval. Tottenham, managed by Roberto De Zerbi, attempted to claw back into the contest. Conor Gallagher found the net in the 69th minute, heading in a close-range effort that reduced the deficit to one goal and offered the Spurs a glimmer of hope. However, Liverpool's goalkeeper, Alisson, and their defensive unit remained resolute, denying further attempts.
In the dying moments of regular time, Tottenham forward Omar Marmoush struck a promising ball that seemed destined for an equaliser, but Georgia‑born goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili produced a fingertip save of exceptional quality, keeping the score at 2-1. The drama intensified in stoppage time. Szoboszlai, who had already been a constant threat throughout the match, unleashed a thunderous shot from the edge of the box.
The ball swerved past a sprawling Dubravka and slammed into the net, leaving no doubt about the final result. The goal was described by commentators as a "worldie" and ensured Liverpool's comfortable passage to the next round, while Tottenham could only take solace in having finally broken the deadlock against top‑flight opposition.
Beyond the headline moments, the game featured several noteworthy incidents. Lucas Bergvall, who could have given Spurs an early lead, saw his close‑range attempt deflected off Mamardashvili's legs, a missed opportunity that would later be highlighted in the match highlights. Mohammed Kudus, operating for Tottenham, managed a high volley that drifted wide after a clever interplay with Destiny Udogie, illustrating the creative spark that De Zerbi's side possessed despite the eventual loss. Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola expressed satisfaction with his team's performance in the post‑match press conference.
He praised the quality of the first two goals, emphasizing their origin from well‑executed build‑up play, and lauded Szoboszlai's last‑gasp winner as a moment of brilliance that could have easily been dismissed as overly ambitious. Iraola also highlighted the energy displayed by young midfielder Lewis Koumas, noting that his enthusiasm was contagious and raised the overall intensity of the side, a factor he believes will be crucial in upcoming fixtures. Tottenham's coach De Zerbi remained optimistic despite the defeat. He acknowledged that his players created several chances and showed sharpness in their play, particularly praising Bergvall's early involvement.
De Zerbi admitted the result was disappointing and that the team did not deserve to lose, yet he emphasized the long‑term project he is building at the club. He stressed his belief in the squad's quality and the importance of maintaining confidence and composure as they aim to find the "click" that will turn potential into consistent results. Sky Sports analyst Jamie Redknapp offered his perspective on both sides. He commended Liverpool for their aggressive pressing and quick transitions, drawing parallels to Iraola's previous work at Bournemouth and suggesting that the manager's philosophy is beginning to take root at Anfield.
Regarding Tottenham, Redknapp noted the positives in their performance, including their sharpness and Bergvall's promising display, and hinted that the Spurs could have produced a higher scoreline on a different day. The match also featured a series of statistical highlights: Mac Allister's opening goal arrived in the 21st minute, Gakpo's second in the 54th, Gallagher's consolation in the 69th, and Szoboszlai's decisive strike in the 90+1 minute. Mamardashvili recorded two crucial saves, the second of which denied Marmoush an equaliser in the 86th minute, underlining his impact on the game.
Overall, Liverpool's victory was a blend of clinical finishing, tactical discipline, and moments of individual brilliance. The Reds will now turn their attention to the next round of the Carabao Cup, buoyed by the confidence that comes from overcoming a strong Tottenham side on their own turf.
Meanwhile, Spurs will regroup ahead of their upcoming league fixtures, taking forward the positives identified by De Zerbi and looking to translate their attacking intent into more favorable outcomes as the season progresses.