Goals from Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott secured a 2-1 victory for Liverpool over Southampton, earning the Reds a place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals.
Liverpool dominated the first half, with Nunez opening the scoring in the 24th minute after a deflection from the Southampton defense. Elliott then doubled their lead just before the half-hour mark, finishing a well-executed team move with a slight deflection off an opponent.
Southampton pulled one back early in the second half through Cameron Archer, who curled in a shot following a deflection, reducing the deficit to 2-1. Despite sustained pressure from the hosts, Liverpool held firm and saw out the match to secure their spot in the semi-finals.
Liverpool made several changes throughout the match, with Trey Nyoni making his first start and Alexis Mac Allister returning from suspension. The Reds also brought on Federico Chiesa and Kostas Tsimikas for the second half.
Despite a late surge from Southampton, Liverpool’s defense, led by goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, stood strong, with Chiesa threatening a third goal at the other end.
With the win, Liverpool now await their semi-final opponents in the Carabao Cup.
Southampton also saw late appeals for a dangerous set-piece waved away by referee Simon Hooper after Jarell Quansah and Mateus Fernandes tangled close to the edge of the box.
Liverpool, though, held firm to see out the victory and continue their defence of the trophy into the New Year semi-finals.
