Dominik Szoboszlai delivered a spectacular finish that clinched a 3-1 triumph for Liverpool over Tottenham Hotspur in the third round of the Carabao Cup at Anfield. The match unfolded with Liverpool taking an early foothold thanks to Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo, who each found the back of the net before the hour mark.
Tottenham, managed by Roberto De Zerbi, managed to pull one back through Conor Gallagher, but a dramatic late save from Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili denied Omar Marmoush an equaliser. In the dying moments of the game, Szoboszlai unleashed a thunderous strike that flew past Martin Dubravka, sealing the win for the Reds and leaving Spurs supporters with only a consolation goal against top‑flight opposition. The opening stages saw Liverpool dominate possession and create several clear chances.
Lucas Bergvall, who had the opportunity to give Spurs an early lead, saw his close‑range effort blocked by the outstretched legs of Mamardashvili. Liverpool responded swiftly; Mac Allister curled a beautiful ball into the top corner to make it 1‑0. Tottenham tried to respond, with Mohammed Kudus attempting a volley after a clever pass from Destiny Udogie, but his effort sailed over the bar. The second half continued in the same vein.
Cody Gakpo, who has been a key figure for Liverpool this season, doubled the lead with a powerful strike that left the crowd at the Kop roaring. His goal was the culmination of a well‑executed move that showcased Liverpool's fluid passing and quick transitions.
Tottenham, refusing to give up, earned a penalty when Conor Gallagher rose highest to head the ball home, reducing the deficit to 2‑1 and injecting a brief spark of hope into the Spurs camp. However, the decisive moment arrived in stoppage time. After a sustained period of pressure, Szoboszlai found space on the edge of the box, took a touch to steady himself, and unleashed a left‑footed rocket that arced past Dubravka’s outstretched hands and into the net.
The goal was described by commentators as a "worldie" – a strike of such quality that it seemed almost unreal. This final blow left the scoreboard at 3‑1 and effectively ended any Tottenham comeback hopes. Post‑match, Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola praised his side’s attacking efficiency and highlighted the importance of the first two goals, describing them as "very good" and noting the significance of their origins.
He went on to call Szoboszlai’s late strike a "worldie," emphasizing that while some players might have seemed distant from the goal, Dom’s ability to score in crucial moments made all the difference. Iraola also singled out young midfielder Lewis Koumas, commending his energy and influence in training and matches. He said Koumas’s enthusiasm is "contagious" and forces the rest of the team to raise their level, a sentiment echoed by the coaching staff who noted the maturity displayed by both Koumas and Trey Nyoni in the midfield battle.
Tottenham’s boss, Roberto De Zerbi, remained optimistic despite the loss. Speaking to Sky Sports, he acknowledged the team's effort and the quality of chances they created. He admitted the result was disappointing but stressed his belief in the squad’s potential, emphasizing that the players have a high ceiling and that the club is building a new project under his guidance.
De Zerbi expressed confidence that, with time, the team will click and produce more consistent performances. Sky Sports analyst Jamie Redknapp offered a balanced view of the encounter. He praised Liverpool for their aggressive pressing and quick ball recovery, noting that the team’s style mirrors the high‑intensity approach Iraola employed during his tenure at Bournemouth. Redknapp also recognized Tottenham’s positives, highlighting the sharpness of their play and the promising performance of Lucas Bergvall, who, despite missing a chance, showed potential for future contributions.
The match also featured several notable moments captured in the broadcast timeline: - 11th minute: A crucial save by Mamardashvili, deflecting Bergvall’s shot with his legs. - 21st minute: Mac Allister’s opening goal, a high‑arched curl into the net. - 32nd minute: Kudus’s miss, a well‑placed volley that went over the bar. - 54th minute: Gakpo’s second‑half strike that doubled Liverpool’s lead.
- 69th minute: Gallagher’s header that gave Spurs a glimmer of hope. - 86th minute: Mamardashvili’s spectacular fingertip save denying Marmoush. - 90+1 minute: Szoboszlai’s decisive finish that sealed the cup tie.
Overall, the game showcased Liverpool’s clinical edge in cup competitions and the growing confidence of young talents like Koumas and Nyoni. For Tottenham, the loss highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in finishing and defensive organization, but also provided a platform to build on as they continue their Premier League campaign.
The victory propels Liverpool further in the Carabao Cup, while Spurs return to the league with valuable lessons and a renewed determination to bounce back. Fans are reminded to use the Chrome browser for an optimal video player experience when rewatching highlights.
Additionally, a promotional note invites viewers to play the Super 6 for a chance to win £1 million, with free entry available for those interested.