Boardman: Liverpool Could Win ‘Multiple Trophies’ Under Arne Slot This Season | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Carabao Cup Triumph Over Brighton: Key Moments and Player Reflections

In a gripping Carabao Cup encounter, Liverpool edged out Brighton with a 3-2 victory at the AMEX Stadium, as analysed by Trev Downey and Jim Boardman on Anfield Index’s post-match podcast, RAW. Under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot, the Reds advanced to the quarter-finals in a game that featured moments of brilliance, tough decisions, and tactical resilience. Let’s dive into key takeaways from Liverpool’s performance, drawing on insights from Downey, Boardman, and contributor Harry Sethi.

Cody Gakpo’s Decisive Role

Slot’s lineup highlighted his strategic selection choices, with Cody Gakpo playing a pivotal role. “Cody’s goal was an absolute gem,” remarked Trev Downey, “a classic Gakpo goal with a merciless strike.” Gakpo’s wonder goal, set up by a precise pass from Tyler Morton, showcased his technique and power. This wasn’t just a goal; it was a statement. Boardman humorously noted, “It looked like one of those times where your older brother nudges you aside and blasts it in because he can.”

Beyond his goal-scoring, Gakpo’s physicality and confidence were pivotal. “He monstered Lamptey,” Downey noted, “using his superior strength to drive the ball past the keeper.” The Dutch forward’s determination and flair could be an asset as Liverpool push deeper into the Carabao Cup. As Sethi observed, “Every chance he’s had this season, he’s looked decisive, coming onto the pitch to score or assist.” Gakpo’s ability to rise to big moments signals his growing influence within the squad.

Photo: IMAGO

Tactical Adjustments and Midfield Dynamics

Liverpool’s midfield saw a mix of young talent and seasoned players, including Endo and Morton, each vying to prove their worth. “Endo didn’t have his best night,” Downey conceded, highlighting the midfielder’s challenges in keeping up with the pace. However, Morton’s forward-thinking play was a bright spot, with Sethi calling his pass to Gakpo “reminiscent of a Thiago kind of pass.” Morton’s performance demonstrated a growing confidence, perhaps making him a reliable backup option.

Slot’s commitment to rotating the squad showcased his intent to balance competition demands with player development. “Slot’s keeping his selection tight, but tonight was about testing our depth,” Boardman noted. With the Premier League and Champions League also in play, Slot’s calculated rotation reflects his intent to avoid last season’s overextension, which impacted the squad’s fitness.

Photo: IMAGO

Defensive Wobbles and Bright Spots

Liverpool’s defensive moments oscillated between secure and suspect, with third-choice keeper Vítězslav Jaroš earning praise. “Yaroš had an incredible save that echoed Alisson’s calm,” said Boardman, adding that his loan experience showed through. However, Jarell Quansah’s evening was a challenging one, with a mistake leading to a Brighton goal. Downey captured the concern, saying, “Quansah’s confidence will take a hit, but he’s shown good potential.” In a telling move, Slot substituted Quansah for Ibrahima Konaté late in the game, a decision some saw as a confidence blow. As Sethi commented, “That’s a ruthless decision, but it speaks to Slot’s high standards.”

Brighton’s persistence paid off, with late-game substitutes like Ansu Fati and Danny Welbeck adding fresh challenges for Liverpool. A deflection off Quansah unfortunately led to Brighton’s second goal. “We’re often the authors of our own downfall,” lamented Downey, “Brighton didn’t let us rest easy even at 3-1 up.”

Forward Momentum and Strategic Depth

Slot’s tactical approach suggests he values the Carabao Cup as a proving ground, not only for young talents but also as a competitive platform to maintain squad depth. Boardman observed, “This side is just about doing enough to win games,” highlighting Liverpool’s knack for eking out results even when not dominating.

Looking ahead, Liverpool face Southampton in the quarter-finals, with a favourable draw adding to the optimism. “It’s shaping up to be a season where we could win multiple trophies,” remarked Boardman, underscoring that fans want the League Cup to be “one of the pieces of silverware, not the only one.” Slot’s squad management will be crucial as they navigate a busy schedule, balancing cup ambitions with league pursuits.

Liverpool’s Carabao Cup journey continues with rising confidence. This quarter-final victory was a valuable learning experience, with players like Gakpo and Morton cementing their contributions. As the season unfolds, Slot’s tactical nous and Liverpool’s resilient spirit could see them lifting silverware once more.