Liverpool Restore Two-Goal Cushion After Penalty Drama vs Barnsley LIVE!

Liverpool faced League One side Barnsley in the FA Cup Third Round at Anfield on January 12, 2026, aiming to extend their perfect record of 11 wins in ties played on this date.[1]

The match kicked off at 7:45 PM UTC, with Liverpool dominating possession at around 78% early on, generating higher expected goals (0.45 vs Barnsley's 0.27).[3] Hosting manager Arne Slot fielded a strong lineup including Giorgi Mamardashvili in goal, defenders Jeremie Frimpong, Joseph Gomez, Virgil van Dijk, and Andrew Robertson, midfielders Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, and forwards Federico Chiesa, Curtis Jones, Rio Ngumoha, and Cody Gakpo.[3]

Penalty drama unfolded as Barnsley earned a spot-kick, narrowing the gap and testing Liverpool's defense. Barnsley players like D. Kellior-Dunn (2 goals in recent matches) and P. Kelly posed threats, but Liverpool quickly restored their two-goal cushion, showcasing clinical finishing and resilience.[2]

Liverpool entered on a solid run: 0-0 vs Arsenal, 2-2 vs Fulham, 0-0 vs Leeds, 2-1 vs Wolves, and 2-1 vs Spurs.[5] Barnsley, mid-table in League One, had mixed results: 1-1 vs Wigan, 0-2 vs Lincoln, 2-3 vs Mansfield.[5] Historical context includes a 1-2 loss to Barnsley in 2008 FA Cup.[2]

Live updates from Sky Sports captured the tension, with betting odds favoring Liverpool heavily. The Reds' home advantage and depth prevailed, advancing them while highlighting FA Cup magic—upsets like Macclesfield's elsewhere.[2] Final score reflected Liverpool's control post-penalty scare, defending their January 12 streak.

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