Dominik Szoboszlai delivered a spectacular late goal 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 the initiative early on, thanks to a well‑crafted opening strike from Alexis Mac Allister, who curled a high ball past Martin Dubravka to give the hosts the lead. Shortly after, Cody Gakpo doubled the advantage, firing a powerful shot into the net after a fluid Liverpool move that showcased the team’s attacking fluidity and precision. Tottenham managed to pull one back in the 69th minute when Conor Gallagher met a cross with a decisive header, narrowing the gap and injecting a brief flicker of hope for Roberto De Zerbi’s side.
The drama intensified in the final minutes when Tottenham’s Omar Marmoush found himself in a promising position to equalise, only to be denied by an extraordinary fingertip save from Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. The save kept the score at 2-1 and set the stage for Szoboszlai’s moment of magic.
In stoppage time, the Hungarian midfielder unleashed a curling effort from the edge of the box that sailed over Dubravka’s outstretched arms, sealing a 3-1 victory for Liverpool and confirming Andoni Iraola’s progress in the competition. Throughout the game, Liverpool displayed a higher level of clinical finishing compared to Tottenham, who, despite creating several chances, struggled to convert. Lucas Bergvall’s early attempt for the Spurs was thwarted when his shot struck Mamardashvili’s legs, a missed opportunity that could have altered the match’s complexion. In the first half, Mohammed Kudus tried to make an impact for Tottenham, volleying a high ball wide after a clever run from Destiny Udogie, but the effort lacked the accuracy needed to trouble the Liverpool defence.
Liverpool’s second goal, scored by Gakpo, exemplified the team’s swift transition play. After winning the ball in midfield, the Reds quickly moved it forward, with Gakpo arriving unmarked at the edge of the area and unleashing a low, driven shot that left Dubravka with no chance. The goal highlighted Liverpool’s ability to exploit spaces left by Tottenham’s high defensive line, a tactical nuance that Iraola has been emphasizing since taking charge. Tottenham’s lone goal came from Gallagher, who capitalised on a cross from the right flank.
His header was well‑timed, but the overall impact of the goal was limited as Liverpool quickly restored their two‑goal cushion. The Spurs’ manager, Roberto De Zerbi, praised his side’s resilience and the sharpness displayed by players such as Bergvall, but he also acknowledged the need for greater composure in front of goal. The match featured several key moments that were captured in the broadcast’s highlight reel: - 11th minute: A crucial save by Mamardashvili after Bergvall’s close‑range attempt hit the goalkeeper’s legs.
- 21st minute: Mac Allister’s opening goal, a beautifully curled shot that set the tone for Liverpool’s dominance. - 32nd minute: Kudus’ miss, a high volley that drifted wide despite a promising build‑up.
- 54th minute: Gakpo’s second‑half strike, a powerful finish that doubled Liverpool’s lead. - 69th minute: Gallagher’s header, narrowing the deficit for Tottenham. - 86th minute: Another spectacular save by Mamardashvili, denying Marmoush an equaliser. - 90+1 minute: Szoboszlai’s decisive winner, a world‑class finish that sealed the win.
Andoni Iraola, Liverpool’s manager, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance in the post‑match press conference. He highlighted the quality of the first two goals, noting their importance in establishing control, and described Szoboszlai’s late strike as a "worldie" that demonstrated the player’s ability to produce moments of brilliance when it matters most. Iraola also praised the energy displayed by young midfielder Lewis Koumas, stating that his enthusiasm is contagious and raises the overall intensity of the squad.
Tottenham’s De Zerbi, speaking to Sky Sports, remained optimistic despite the defeat. He emphasized the positives, including the team’s sharpness and the promising showing from Bergvall, and reiterated his belief in the players’ quality and the long‑term project he is building at the club. He admitted disappointment with the result but insisted that the side’s performances are improving and that they will continue to develop their identity. Sky Sports analyst Jamie Redknapp offered his perspective on both sides.
He praised Liverpool for their relentless pressing and quick ball recovery, likening their style to the approach Iraola employed during his tenure at Bournemouth. Redknapp also noted that Tottenham, while outplayed, showed moments of promise and could be a threat on another day if they refine their finishing. Overall, the match served as a showcase for Liverpool’s depth and tactical adaptability under Iraola, while providing Tottenham with valuable experience and a glimpse of potential for the remainder of the season. The victory propels Liverpool further into the Carabao Cup, positioning them as strong contenders for the trophy, whereas Spurs will look to regroup and address the defensive lapses that allowed the Reds to dominate.
The game also highlighted the impact of individual brilliance—particularly Szoboszlai’s late heroics—and underscored the importance of composure in high‑stakes knockout football.