Federico Chiesa inspires Liverpool with two assists in EFL Cup win | OneFootball

Liverpool 2 – 1 Southampton – EFL Cup Man of the Match

Federico Chiesa

Liverpool FC

Steven Smith’s Pre-match Prediction:

Liverpool 4 – 1 Southampton

Federico Chiesa has had to be patient since his 2024 summer move to Liverpool. In a squad brimming with attacking options, opportunities to start have been scarce and the arrival of both Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike this past summer, seemed to close the Anfield chapter on the infectious Italy star. But in the EFL Cup third round clash with Southampton at Anfield, the Italian seized his chance with both hands, producing a performance full of intensity, desire, and end product. His two assists were decisive in Liverpool’s 2-1 win, but just as important was the consistency of his threat across the ninety minutes.

From the opening whistle, Chiesa played with a sharpness that set him apart. He was direct in possession, constantly driving into space and forcing defenders to retreat. Southampton, who arrived with nothing to lose, pressed high and left gaps in behind. Chiesa exploited those channels repeatedly, showing not only his pace but also his willingness to commit defenders. It was a performance that reminded Anfield of his pedigree at the highest level.

The breakthrough came in the first half and it was all about the Italian’s determination. Picking up possession in the left channel with a powerful press, Chiesa squared for Alexander Isak to finish calmly past the goalkeeper. It was the kind of selfless decision-making Liverpool’s attack thrives upon, and it instantly justified Arne Slot’s decision to give him the start.

Chiesa’s influence didn’t wane after that. Even as Liverpool rotated heavily, allowing a youthful and experimental side on the pitch, the 27-year-old acted as the clear leader in attack. He constantly looked to drag the tempo upwards, demanding the ball and pushing his side forward whenever Southampton threatened to gain a foothold. His second assist highlighted this perfectly – another surging run, another moment of vision, and another decisive contribution with was the height of selflessness.

What stood out most, however, was Chiesa’s work rate. Unlike many flair players, he never switched off out of possession. Time and again he tracked back, snapping into tackles and offering cover to those around and behind him. For Slot, whose system relies on collective intensity, that attitude is invaluable. The Italian didn’t just showcase his technical gifts; he embodied the aggressive, front-foot mentality the coach demands from every Liverpool player.

By the time he left the pitch to a standing ovation, there was little doubt he had been the game’s outstanding performer. Giorgi Mamardashvili was excellent in goal, and Isak offered a glimpse of his growing sharpness, but it was Chiesa who knitted the performance together. Both goals came directly through his creation, and beyond the statistics, his presence lifted those around him.

For Liverpool, progression in the EFL Cup is about more than just silverware – it’s about depth, rotation, and keeping every squad member engaged. Chiesa’s display ensured that point was underlined in bold. If there had been any doubt about his ability to contribute decisively this season, this performance erased it.

A night for the Italian to savour, and perhaps a sign of bigger things to come.