Holders Liverpool are through to the semi-finals of the EFL Cup for the third time in four seasons after a 2-1 win over Southampton, who suffered defeat in their first match under caretaker manager Simon Rusk.
Liverpool advanced to the semi-finals of the EFL Cup with a 2-1 victory over Southampton in challenging conditions at St. Mary’s Stadium. Goals from Darwin Núñez and Harvey Elliott in the first half gave the Reds control, but a spirited fightback from the Saints in the second period tested their resolve. Ultimately, Liverpool’s quality and resilience prevailed, extending their unbeaten run across all competitions to 20 matches.
Difficult Conditions and Early Breakthrough
Heavy rain on the south coast set a challenging stage for both teams, with the slippery surface making early exchanges tentative. Southampton’s Tyler Dibling offered the first glimpse of danger in the 19th minute, but his effort was comfortably handled by Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.
Darwin opens the scoring at St Mary’s pic.twitter.com/OF8PiisexG
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 18, 2024
Liverpool responded quickly and took the lead in the 24th minute. A long ball forward from Jarell Quansah took a fortunate deflection and fell perfectly for Darwin Núñez. The Uruguayan striker capitalized on the opportunity, slotting past Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, who slipped as he attempted to adjust.
The visitors doubled their lead just seven minutes later. A slick passing sequence involving Cody Gakpo and Wataru Endō created space on the edge of the box for Harvey Elliott. The young midfielder unleashed a shot that took a deflection off Ryan Manning, wrong-footing McCarthy and finding the back of the net.
Commanding Performance Before the Break
Liverpool dominated the remainder of the first half, with Alexis Mac Allister coming close to adding a third. McCarthy made an acrobatic save to deny the Argentine, keeping Southampton in the contest. Despite Liverpool’s control, the Saints showed glimpses of attacking intent, but their efforts lacked the precision needed to trouble Kelleher.
At halftime, Liverpool appeared firmly in control, with their fluid attacking play and disciplined defense keeping Southampton at bay. For the Saints, however, there was still hope of a comeback under the guidance of caretaker manager Simon Rusk.
Southampton’s Spirited Response
The second half saw a revitalized Southampton side take to the field. Rusk’s halftime team talk appeared to have inspired his players, as they increased their intensity and began pressing Liverpool higher up the pitch. Their efforts paid off in the 58th minute when Cameron Archer capitalized on a ricochet off Wataru Endō. Cutting in from the left, Archer curled a superb shot past Kelleher to halve the deficit and ignite the home crowd.
Three minutes later, Archer came agonizingly close to equalizing. A pinpoint cross from Yukinari Sugawara found the forward in the box, but Kelleher produced a stunning reaction save to preserve Liverpool’s lead. The near-miss galvanized Southampton, who continued to apply pressure in search of an equalizer.
Liverpool’s Resilience Under Pressure
As Southampton pressed forward, Liverpool relied on their defensive organization and the composure of their experienced players to weather the storm. Antonio Rudiger and Jarell Quansah stood firm at the back, while Kelleher’s crucial saves kept the Saints at bay.
The Reds also created chances to seal the game, with Federico Chiesa coming close in the closing stages. The Italian forward’s effort appeared destined for the net, but Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis made a remarkable goalline clearance to keep his side in contention.
Despite Southampton’s spirited fightback, Liverpool’s first-half goals proved decisive. The Reds demonstrated their ability to manage pressure and grind out results, showcasing the qualities that have made them formidable competitors this season.
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Key Performances
- Darwin Núñez: The Uruguayan striker was instrumental, scoring the opener and stretching Southampton’s defense with his pace and movement.
- Harvey Elliott: Elliott’s deflected strike turned out to be the match-winner, highlighting his knack for delivering in crucial moments.
- Caoimhin Kelleher: The Liverpool goalkeeper made several vital saves, including a pivotal stop against Archer in the second half.
- Cameron Archer: Southampton’s forward was their standout performer, scoring a brilliant goal and coming close to an equalizer.
Liverpool’s Unbeaten Streak Continues
The victory marked Liverpool’s 20th consecutive match without defeat across all competitions. Under manager Arne Slot, the Reds have developed a winning mentality and tactical flexibility that has allowed them to excel in multiple tournaments. The team’s ability to adapt to different challenges, such as Southampton’s second-half resurgence, highlights their strength and readiness for the intense fixtures ahead.
“We are very thankful to the fans for the energy they give us”
Harvey Elliott and Tyler Morton react after Liverpool’s 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Southampton pic.twitter.com/6FkhYVsdeH
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) December 18, 2024
Liverpool’s depth and squad rotation have been key to their success. Players like Núñez and Elliott have stepped up in crucial moments, while Slot’s tactical adjustments have kept the team competitive on all fronts.
Southampton Show Promise Under Rusk
Despite the defeat, Southampton’s performance offered glimpses of promise under Simon Rusk. The caretaker manager’s halftime adjustments injected energy and purpose into the team, with players like Archer and Sugawara standing out. While their first-half display left much to be desired, the Saints’ second-half effort demonstrated their potential to challenge stronger opponents.
The defeat also highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in defensive transitions and composure in front of goal. However, Rusk’s ability to inspire a response against a top-tier Liverpool side bodes well for Southampton’s future under his stewardship.
Looking Ahead
Liverpool’s progression to the semi-finals keeps their hopes alive for an 11th EFL Cup triumph, further solidifying their status as one of the most successful teams in the competition’s history. With the Reds also competing strongly in the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup, the prospect of a historic quadruple remains within reach.
For Southampton, the focus shifts back to their Premier League campaign. While the result was disappointing, their performance against Liverpool provides a foundation to build upon as they aim to climb out of their current struggles in the league.
Liverpool’s victory at St. Mary’s was another demonstration of their quality and determination, as they continue their pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts.
