Arne Slot scolds Hugo Ekitike over 'stupid and needless' red card after Liverpool survive late scare against Southampton - and Alexander Isak opens his account with first Reds goal
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On September 23, 2025, Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory over Southampton in the Carabao Cup third round at Anfield, progressing to the fourth round with goals from Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike.
Liverpool took the lead shortly before halftime when Alexander Isak struck at the 43rd minute. Isak had an early chance within 44 seconds, but Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy managed to deflect his shot. However, a critical mistake by McCarthy soon after — a misplaced pass out from the back — was intercepted by Federico Chiesa, who then assisted Isak for a precise first-time strike that found the net just inside the post.
Southampton responded with a late equalizer in the 76th minute through S. Charles, leveling the score and bringing renewed tension to the match.
Liverpool restored their advantage in the 85th minute through Hugo Ekitike, who fired home the decisive goal. Shortly after scoring, Ekitike was sent off in the 86th minute, reducing Liverpool to ten men but they held on to their lead.
The game was notable for Liverpool’s display of quality and squad depth, demonstrating a significant gap in ability relative to Southampton, whose total squad is valued considerably lower. Southampton's attack had a few dangerous moments, including a shot by captain Adam Armstrong that hit the crossbar and an open-goal miss by Leo Scienza, but these were rare threats against a mostly controlled Liverpool defense.
Overall, Liverpool's performance was marked by clinical finishing and resilience despite the late red card, while Southampton showed spirited efforts but were ultimately undone by individual errors and a superior Liverpool side.
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