Slot hits out at ‘stupid’ Ekitiké after red card for celebrating Liverpool winner

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.

Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory over Southampton in the Carabao Cup third-round match at Anfield on September 23, 2025. Alexander Isak scored his first goal for Liverpool just before halftime, opening the scoring with a smart near-post finish in the 43rd minute. However, Liverpool's win required a late intervention from Hugo Ekitike, who netted the crucial second goal in the 85th minute. Despite his goal, Ekitike was sent off a minute later due to a second booking after celebrating excessively by removing his shirt to display his name on the back to the cameras—a costly mistake given he was already on a yellow card. Southampton's sole goal came from Shea Charles in the 76th minute, but it was not enough to avoid defeat.

The match saw Liverpool make eleven changes from their previous Premier League game against Everton, including two debutants, reflecting Arne Slot's strategy to rotate his squad and manage fitness ahead of a busy schedule. This included Isak, signed for a British record fee of £125 million from Newcastle, who was substituted at halftime to build fitness given his recent lack of preseason and soreness after a recent match against Atletico Madrid. Liverpool currently leads the Premier League, maintaining an impeccable record with five wins from five games and demonstrating ruthless finishing in tight encounters.

Southampton, newly relegated to the Championship and struggling under new manager Will Still, have won only one of their first six league matches and arrived at Anfield seeking an upset to boost their morale. Despite a promising tactical overhaul by Still, the Saints have faced a challenging start to the season and fell short against a strong Liverpool side, whose squad depth and quality shone through.

The match was attended by 59,518 fans at Anfield, highlighting the significance of the fixture even in the earlier stages of the League Cup. Liverpool progresses to the next round, eyeing a strong cup run alongside their league ambitions.

PP