Hourihane critical of 'disrespectful' Szoboszlai error
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Liverpool Overcomes Barnsley in FA Cup Thriller Amid Szoboszlai Controversy
In a dramatic FA Cup third-round match at Anfield on January 12, 2026, Liverpool defeated League One side Barnsley 4-1, but the game was overshadowed by a bizarre error from midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai that drew sharp criticism from Barnsley boss Conor Hourihane.[1][2]
Szoboszlai opened the scoring with a stunning 30-yard piledriver, giving Liverpool an early lead. However, later in his own penalty area, the Hungarian inexplicably attempted a backheel, which inadvertently set up Barnsley's Adam Phillips for an easy tap-in in front of the Kop stand, making it 1-1.[1][2][3] Hourihane labeled the mistake "disrespectful" to his team, stating, "I don't think he does that against Chelsea or Arsenal in a Champions League game. Unbelievable little feeling and buzz for Adam obviously, but a little bit of lack of respect from their player."[1][2] He suggested Szoboszlai wouldn't risk such a flashy move against top opposition.[2]
Liverpool manager Arne Slot dismissed the accusation, responding bemusedly: "I don't think you should do that in a Premier League game, League Cup game, friendly game or a training session." Slot appeared furious with Szoboszlai, hinting at private repercussions for the "horrific lapse in judgement," though not outright disrespect.[1][2] Pundit Steve McManaman echoed Hourihane, noting the midfielder's usual reliability.[2]
The match wasn't without further drama. Barnsley had a strong penalty claim when winger Reyes Cleary went down under Szoboszlai's challenge in the second half, with replays showing a touch on the ball but also shirt-pulling. Referee Farai Hallam waved it away, as VAR isn't used until the fifth round. Hourihane called it a "stonewall penalty" that could have made it 2-2 around the 65th minute.[1]
Liverpool sealed victory with late goals from substitutes Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, overcoming Barnsley's resilient challenge despite their persistence until the final whistle.[2] The incident highlights tensions in cup ties between Premier League giants and lower-league underdogs.
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