Anfield witnessed a classic Carabao Cup rollercoaster as a much-changed Liverpool side narrowly avoided a major upset, eventually overcoming a dogged Southampton 4-2 on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw in normal time.
Championship high-flyers Southampton delivered a performance brimming with Premier League quality, twice coming from behind to push Jürgen Klopp's Reds to the absolute limit. It was a night where Liverpool's fringe players were given a stern examination, and the heroics of young goalkeeper Harvey Davies ultimately secured their passage into the next round.
Early Promise Fades for the Reds
The home side started brightly, with Jarell Quansah powerfully heading them into a deserved lead from a Harvey Elliott corner. For a while, it seemed Liverpool might canter to a comfortable victory. However, the Saints, unbeaten in the league and full of confidence, had other ideas.
They grew into the game and found a deserved equaliser just after the half-hour mark. A defensive lapse from Liverpool allowed Samuel Edozie to pounce, calmly slotting the ball past Davies to silence the Anfield crowd.
Gakpo Restores Order, But Saints Strike Back
Liverpool regained their composure and the lead early in the second half. A moment of individual brilliance from Cody Gakpo saw the Dutch international cut inside and unleash an unstoppable drive into the top corner, restoring the hosts' advantage.
Yet, Southampton's resilience was immense. They refused to capitulate and found a second equaliser with 15 minutes remaining. Substitute Ross Stewart, making a impactful appearance, rose highest to nod home from a corner, setting up a grandstand finish and ultimately forcing the tie to be decided from the penalty spot.
Davies the Shootout Hero
With the pressure at its peak, 21-year-old goalkeeper Harvey Davies emerged as the match-winner. The academy graduate produced two superb saves in the penalty shootout, denying both Shea Charles and Will Smallbone.
Liverpool's takers held their nerve, with Gakpo, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo, and Elliott all converting coolly to send the Reds through. While Klopp will be relieved with the result, the performance of Southampton will give him plenty to ponder, highlighting the fine margins in cup football.
