Liverpool power past brave Barnsley in the FA Cup to spare Szoboszlai’s blushes

Anfield, January 12, 2026 – Liverpool advanced to the FA Cup fourth round with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Championship side Barnsley, overcoming a spirited performance that nearly embarrassed the Premier League giants[1][3].

Barnsley, underdogs at Anfield, stunned the home crowd early when D. Kellior-Dunn fired them ahead, capitalizing on defensive lapses in Arne Slot's rotated Reds lineup[1]. The midfielder, with two goals in as many matches, showcased his form against higher opposition, putting Liverpool on the back foot in the third-round clash[1].

Liverpool dominated possession at 77% and peppered Barnsley's goal with 8 shots (2 on target), but struggled to break through until the second half[3]. Dominik Szoboszlai, starting amid scrutiny over his recent form, was spared further blushes as teammates rallied. Mohamed Salah leveled with a clinical finish after a swift counter, his trademark pace exposing Barnsley's tiring defense[3].

The decisive blow came late when a Diogo Jota substitute appearance sparked chaos in the box, leading to a scrappy winner from a corner – Liverpool's fifth of the night[3]. Barnsley, holding just 23% possession and 5 corners, threatened sporadically with P. Kelly and N. Farrugia assists, but couldn't match the Reds' quality[1][3].

Slot praised Barnsley's bravery post-match, noting their League One promotion push made them a tough nut[2]. For Liverpool, the win spares rotation risks and keeps cup dreams alive, though Szoboszlai's quiet display fuels debate on his role[1]. Attendance swelled Anfield's atmosphere, underscoring the FA Cup's magic amid upsets elsewhere like Macclesfield's shock[1].

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