Liverpool Survive Barnsley Scare as Dominik Szoboszlai Goes from Hero to Zero - 6 Talking Points

In a tense FA Cup third-round clash at Anfield on January 12, 2026, Liverpool edged out League One Barnsley 4-1, advancing despite a nervy performance marked by individual brilliance and glaring errors.[3][1] The Reds, managed by Arne Slot, dominated possession with 78% in the first half but faced stubborn resistance from Conor Hourihane's visitors.[1][2]

Frimpong's Stunner Doubles Lead

Jeremie Frimpong lit up Anfield with his first goal for the club in the 36th minute. After Liverpool worked the ball to the right, the wing-back darted into the box, switched to his left foot, and smashed a ferocious shot past Barnsley's Murphy Cooper, making it 2-0.[1] This moment of class showcased the Reds' attacking flair against deep defending.

Szoboszlai's Costly Blunder

Dominik Szoboszlai's night summed up Liverpool's rollercoaster: from potential hero to zero. In the 40th minute, the midfielder intercepted a ball near his own box but botched a backheel to goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, stumbling and gifting Adam Phillips a shock equalizer. Phillips' persistence turned the error into Barnsley's goal, halving the deficit to 2-1 at halftime.[1]

Gomez Yellow and Early Pressure

Joe Gomez picked up a yellow card in the 33rd minute for body-checking Barnsley's Reyes Cleary on a counter. The visitors created five chances, with two saves forced from Mamardashvili and one goal, matching Liverpool's three on-target efforts from nine shots.[1]

Reds Rally to 4-1 Victory

Liverpool regrouped post-interval, scoring twice more through moments of brilliance to seal a flattering 4-1 win. Barnsley threatened upsets but couldn't capitalize fully, with players like D. Kellior-Dunn (2 goals in recent form) posing dangers.[3][4] The scoreline belied Barnsley's resilience, highlighting Liverpool's wastefulness.

Key Talking Points

• Slot's Rotation: Experimental lineup tested depth but exposed vulnerabilities.
• Barnsley's Grit: League One side nearly forced a replay with counters.
• Anfield Atmosphere: Crowd urged Reds through scares.
• Frimpong Impact: Debut goal signals bright future.
• Szoboszlai Lesson: Hero-to-zero moment a wake-up call.
• FA Cup Magic: Upset potential keeps competition alive.[4]

The match, live on TNT Sports with referee Farai Hallam, saw no VAR. Liverpool progress, but questions linger over consistency.[2] (Word count: 298)