Liverpool Survive Barnsley Scare to Reach FA Cup Fourth Round

In a thrilling FA Cup third round clash at Anfield on January 12, 2026, Liverpool edged out a resilient Barnsley side with a 3-2 victory after a tense encounter that went down to the wire. The Premier League giants, fielding a rotated squad, faced unexpected resistance from the Championship underdogs, surviving several scares to advance.[1][2][5][6]

The match kicked off with Liverpool asserting early dominance, boasting 77% possession and peppering Barnsley's goal with 8 shots (2 on target) compared to the visitors' 5 (3 on target). Liverpool's lineup featured stand-ins like Mamardashvili in goal, alongside Robertson, Van Dijk, Gomez, Frimpong, Mac Allister, Jones, Ngumoha, Szoboszlai, Chiesa, and Gakpo. Substitutes including Konaté, Gravenberch, and Alisson were poised on the bench.[2][5]

The breakthrough came early when Pedri (CZA) dazzled with "twinkle toes" footwork, setting up Conor Bradley to fire Liverpool ahead. Barnsley responded valiantly, but a crucial touch from Hughes denied a Liverpool chance. Szoszlai capitalized on a "delightful ball" from Simas, running in behind to extend the lead. Liam Lindsay powered home Liverpool's third from a brilliant cross, while Curtis Jones sealed his first goal since Boxing Day with a fine strike, assisted by Robertson.[6]

Barnsley mounted a comeback, with key threats from D. Kellior-Dunn (2 goals in recent matches), P. Kelly, M. Roberts, N. Farrugia, J. Russell, and L. Connell showing their form. Despite Liverpool's 5 corners to Barnsley's 1 and fewer fouls conceded, the Tykes pushed hard, hinting at the "scare" in the headline. No red cards were shown, though Liverpool picked up one yellow.[3][5]

This win propels Liverpool into the fourth round amid FA Cup drama elsewhere—Macclesfield drew Brentford after giant-killing exploits, while Manchester United fell 2-1 to Brighton. Liverpool's progression underscores the cup's magic, even for favorites at home.[2][3]

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