Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has publicly apologised following a costly and unusual error during his side's FA Cup third-round victory over Barnsley, an incident branded as 'disrespectful' by the visiting team's manager.
Anfield victory marred by bizarre moment
The Reds secured their place in the fourth round with a 4-1 win at Anfield on Saturday, but the scoreline did not tell the full story. While Liverpool dominated, a moment of madness from Szoboszlai just before half-time provided Barnsley with a lifeline.
Chasing back to halt a Barnsley attack, the Hungarian international successfully retrieved the ball near his own goal line. However, under pressure, he attempted an audacious flick just three yards from his own net, presenting Barnsley's Adam Phillips with a simple tap-in to make it 2-1.
Post-match fury and apology
Barnsley head coach Conor Hourihane did not mince his words in the aftermath. "I'm a little bit disappointed with their player if I'm honest," he stated. "I thought it was a bit disrespectful. I don't think he does that against Chelsea, or Arsenal in a Champions League game."
Liverpool manager Arne Slot was also clearly unimpressed, confirming he would hold private talks with the player. "I don't think you should do that in a Premier League game, League Cup game, friendly game or a training session," Slot remarked.
Taking responsibility, Szoboszlai offered a sincere apology. "[I'm also] sorry for the team again," he said. "I made it hard for us with an easy mistake, I would say. But football moves on and we take the next round."
Reds progress despite error
Prior to his mistake, Szoboszlai had actually opened the scoring with a spectacular 35-yard strike. Jeremie Frimpong doubled Liverpool's lead before the Phillips goal. Second-half substitutes Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike then sealed the comprehensive victory with late goals.
Szoboszlai emphasised the team's serious approach to the competition. "We wanted to show that we take it seriously," he said, praising the squad's depth. "The new guys came in who didn't play maybe as much as the others, but again, they also showed quality. We need everyone."
The win sets up a fourth-round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion, as Liverpool continue their pursuit on multiple fronts this season.
