Liverpool Crush Spurs to Set Up League Cup Final Showdown with Newcastle
Holders Liverpool delivered a commanding performance at Anfield, thrashing Tottenham Hotspur 4-0 to secure a spot in the League Cup final against Newcastle United. With a 4-1 aggregate victory, Liverpool overturned a first-leg deficit, showcasing their dominance in a match that left Spurs struggling for answers.
The Reds took control in the 34th minute when Cody Gakpo found the back of the net, converting a cross from Mohamed Salah. This goal not only lifted the team’s spirits but also set the tone for the rest of the match. Salah then extended the lead shortly after halftime, converting a penalty in the 51st minute after Spurs goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky fouled Darwin Nunez in the box.
Liverpool continued their assault as Dominik Szoboszlai netted the third goal, and Virgil van Dijk sealed the rout with a powerful header. The match highlighted Liverpool’s attacking prowess and depth, with substitutes like Alexis Mac Allister and Diogo Jota making significant impacts in the second half.
The victory marks Liverpool’s 15th appearance in the League Cup final, and it will be a significant moment for their new manager, Arne Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp at the end of last season. Liverpool remains on track for an ambitious four-trophy haul this season, leading the Premier League table and advancing in both the Champions League and FA Cup.
For Tottenham, however, the night was a disappointing one. Manager Ange Postecoglou lamented his team’s inability to find their rhythm, stating, “We never really got to grips with the game, with or without the ball, and allowed Liverpool to control the match early on.” The defeat leaves Spurs with limited silverware prospects this season, with their last trophy coming from the 2008 League Cup.
Striker Richarlison’s injury during first-half stoppage time added to Tottenham’s woes, forcing new signing Mathys Tel into a challenging debut. The evening proved to be a harsh lesson for Spurs, who failed to register a single shot on target, further highlighting the gulf in quality between the two sides.
With the League Cup final set for March 16, Liverpool will aim to add another trophy to their illustrious history, while Tottenham will need to regroup quickly if they want to salvage their season.
