Liverpool struggled against Championship League side Southampton, but the Reds did just enough to sneak by the Saints 2-1 into the next round of the Carabao Cup. Hugo Ekitiké scored the game-winner in the 85th minute, but received a red card for removing his shirt. The 10-man side was able to see out the win at Anfield.
First Half
Alexander Isak forced a save in the first minute, but Southampton earned a corner in the third, forcing Giorgi Mamardashvili into a save. The Saints had another corner moments later, but it was cleared.
Southampton continued to play well, but it was Federico Chiesa who had the next big chance. Forcing a save in the 24th minute and another shot blocked in the 31st. Cameron Archer had a shot blocked in the 33rd as the Saints kept pushing for a breakthrough. It nearly came in the 42nd minute, but Adam Armstrong hit the bar.
Liverpool took advantage quickly as Chiesa found Isak after a turnover, who calmly finished for his first Liverpool goal in the 43rd minute as the Reds led 1-0 at the break.
Second Half
Trey Nyoni had a shot blocked in the 50th minute, but the Reds could not shake the Saints. Chiesa put the ball in the back of the net in the 61st minute, but he was whistled for offside.
Liverpool earned a corner in the 68th minute before a series of giveaways kept Southampton in the match. The backline kept the visitors from tying the game, but Liverpool were living dangerously.
The poor play came back to bite the Reds in the 76th minute. Wataru Endo had a bad clearance from a corner, and Shea Charles headed home the equaliser to tie the match at 1-1. As they have done all season, the Reds scored a late-winner. Chieasa made a clever move in the box and slid the ball to a wide-open Hugo Ekitiké for a tap-in to give Liverpool a 2-1 lead in the 85th minute. However, he removed his shirt in celebration and received a second yellow card, resulting in a sending off. The Reds' defence was able to see out the win as Liverpool advanced to the next round of the Carabao Cup.
Survive & Advance
It wasn't pretty, but Liverpool will advance. They made uncharacteristic mistakes throughout the match, but followed a familiar formula to get the victory. They scored a game-winner in the 83rd minute or later for the sixth straight match against all competitions. The draw for the next round of the Carabao Cup will be held on September 24th at 20:00 BST.
Alexander The Great?
Alexander Isak only played the first half vs. The Saints, but 45 minutes were enough to see the British-record signee score his first of many Liverpool goals. He will likely see even more action this weekend at Crystal Palace, as Hugo Ekitiké will have to serve a one-match ban due to the red card.
"I just try to play my game and not think too much,” Isak told ITV. “I feel confidence in myself that things will work out and that when I get my chances, I'll put them away – that's my mindset. I'm happy that I put one away today."
LFC Globe Virdict
I'm glad I wasn't in the locker room after the match. Arne Slot most likely gave his team a proper scolding, and they deserved it. Poor clearances, bad giveaways, and the list goes on, not to mention Hugo Ekitiké's poor decision to take off his shirt and get booked with a second card. This is not the same Liverpool team we have seen over the past few seasons. The win is a bit of a balm that will make everybody feel a little better, but there are plenty of issues that need to be addressed.
Man Of The Match
Frederico Chieasa. Not only did he assist on both goals, but he also unselfishly did so to Hugo Ekitiké when Chiesa could have gone for glory himself. That shows the mark of a true veteran and leader.
What's Next
Liverpool are away to Crystal Palace on September 27 at Selhurst Park to continue EPL play.
Goals
Liverpool
- Alexander Isak 43'
- Hugo Ekitiké 85'
Southampton
- Shea Charles 76'
Substitutes
Liverpool
- Hugo Ekitiké for Alexander Isak HT'
- Conor Bradley for Curtis Jones 57'
- Jayden Danns for Rio Ngumoha 75'
- Milos Kerkez for Giovanni Leoni 81'
Southampton
- Damion Downs for Cameron Archer 51'
- Shea Charles for Caspar Jander 51'
- Jay Robinsn for Leo Scienza 62'
- Tom Fellows for Elias Jelert 88'
- Ross Stewart for Ronnie Edwards 88'