Erling Haaland Responds to Dominik Szoboszlai as Liverpool Star Told to 'Smile a Bit'

In Liverpool's 4-1 FA Cup third-round victory over League One side Barnsley at Anfield on January 12, 2026, midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai had a night of highs and lows that drew attention from Manchester City striker Erling Haaland[1][2][3].

Szoboszlai opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a stunning 30-yard screamer that flew past Barnsley's Murphy Cooper, giving Liverpool an early lead and easing Anfield nerves after Barnsley's strong start[1][2][3]. Jeremie Frimpong doubled the advantage on 36 minutes with Alexis Mac Allister providing two first-half assists[3]. However, just four minutes later, Szoboszlai's casual backheel attempt near his own six-yard box backfired disastrously. The error gifted Adam Phillips—a former Liverpool youth product—a tap-in, pulling one back for Barnsley right before halftime and injecting tension into the tie[2][3][4].

Barnsley boss Kieran Hourihane slammed the Hungarian for the "disrespectful" move, suggesting it underestimated his players, while Liverpool manager Arne Slot also vented frustration over the lapse[4]. Despite the scare, Liverpool dominated the second half, with Florian Wirtz (84') and Hugo Ekitike (90+4') sealing progression to the fourth round against Brighton & Hove Albion[2][3]. The Reds extended their unbeaten run to 11 games across all competitions[2].

Amid Szoboszlai's muted goal celebration—which stood out given the strike's quality—his former RB Salzburg teammate Haaland, who played 19 games alongside him, poked fun on Snapchat. Watching the match, the Norwegian posted a clip of the goal with the caption: "Domi, what a goal. Smile a bit."[1][2][5]. The tongue-in-cheek jab went viral, highlighting their close friendship despite rival club loyalties[1][2].

The incident adds intrigue ahead of Liverpool's Premier League clash with Manchester City at Anfield in early February, where Szoboszlai could play a pivotal role in avenging a prior 3-0 loss[1]. Liverpool next face Burnley on January 17[2].

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