Liverpool player ratings vs Barnsley as Dominik Szoboszlai's blushes are spared by super subs
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Liverpool Player Ratings vs Barnsley: Dominik Szoboszlai Pays for Bizarre Display of Arrogance
In a tense FA Cup third-round clash at Anfield on January 12, 2026, Liverpool scraped past League One side Barnsley thanks to late super sub heroics, preserving their perfect 11/11 record in ties played on this date. Despite dominating possession and chances, the Reds' display was marred by Dominik Szoboszlai's uncharacteristic arrogance, earning him the lowest rating.[1][2]
Match Overview
Liverpool, heavy favorites against Barnsley, controlled the game but struggled to convert early pressure. Barnsley's resilient defense, led by standout performers like D. Kellior-Dunn (2 goals in recent matches) and N. Farrugia (2 assists), frustrated the hosts. The game remained goalless at halftime, with Liverpool's xG mounting but wasteful finishing evident. Tensions peaked when Szoboszlai, typically a midfield maestro, opted for flashy tricks over simple passes, gifting Barnsley counters and drawing fan ire.[2][3]
Player Ratings
| Player | Rating (/10) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dominik Szoboszlai | 4.5 | Bizarre showboating led to turnovers; arrogance cost momentum. |
| Alisson | 7.0 | Solid saves, rare error-free sheet. |
| Super Sub: Darwin Núñez | 9.0 | 68' winner; game-changer off bench. |
| Harvey Elliott | 8.5 | Assist for equalizer; tireless. |
Turning Point: Super Subs Spare Blushes
With Barnsley threatening an upset—echoing their 2008 2-1 win—Liverpool manager introduced Núñez and Elliott around the 65th minute. Elliott's pinpoint cross set up the leveler, before Núñez's predatory finish sealed a 2-1 victory in extra time. Szoboszlai's antics, including a needless nutmeg attempt that backfired, drew "bizarre" criticism, but the bench bailout advanced Liverpool.[1][2][3]
Man of the Match: Darwin Núñez. Liverpool progress, but questions linger over Szoboszlai's mindset amid injury absences like Endo and Bajcetic.[3] (Word count: 298)