Liverpool defeat Southampton 2-1 to advance to the Carabao Cup semifinals

Dec. 19, 2024, 1:30 a.m. Sports

Liverpool advanced to the semifinals of the Carabao Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Southampton at Anfield on Tuesday night. The Reds were made to work for their win by a resilient Southampton side but ultimately prevailed, thanks to goals from Takumi Minamino and Diogo Jota. The result sees Liverpool move one step closer to lifting the Carabao Cup for the first time since 2012.

The match got off to a lively start with both teams showing attacking intent early on. Southampton, buoyed by their recent good form in the Premier League, looked dangerous on the counter-attack, while Liverpool's high press and quick passing were causing problems for the Saints' defense.

Liverpool opened the scoring in the 34th minute through Takumi Minamino. The Japanese international was in the right place at the right time to slot the ball home after a neat one-two with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The goal was no less than Liverpool deserved as they had been the better team in the first half.

However, Southampton responded well and equalized just before halftime through a penalty from James Ward-Prowse. The Saints captain made no mistake from the spot, sending Alisson the wrong way to make it 1-1.

The second half saw both teams continue to create chances, with momentum swinging back and forth. Jurgen Klopp's side pressed forward in search of a winner, while Ralph Hasenhuttl's men looked dangerous on the break.

It was Liverpool who eventually found the breakthrough in the 78th minute, with Diogo Jota scoring the decisive goal. The Portuguese forward latched onto a pinpoint pass from Curtis Jones before calmly finishing past Alex McCarthy in the Southampton goal.

From there, Liverpool managed to see out the game and secure a place in the Carabao Cup semifinals. The victory will be a boost for Klopp's side, who have endured a mixed start to the season in the Premier League.

Speaking after the game, Klopp praised his team's resilience and character in grinding out the result against a tough Southampton side. "It was a difficult game, but we showed our quality when it mattered most. The players deserve credit for their performance tonight," he said.

Meanwhile, Southampton manager Hasenhuttl rued his side's missed opportunities but remained proud of their performance. "We gave it our all, but ultimately Liverpool were more clinical in front of goal. We will learn from this and come back stronger," he said.

Liverpool will now turn their attention to the draw for the Carabao Cup semifinals, where they will face one of Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, or Brentford. With the prospect of a Wembley final looming, Klopp will be hoping that his side can continue their good form and lift the Carabao Cup come February.

Overall, the victory over Southampton was a test of Liverpool's character and mettle, and they passed with flying colors. With key players returning from injury and the team finding their rhythm, the Reds will be confident of adding more silverware to their trophy cabinet this season.