Reaction: Liverpool Edge Barnsley in Thrilling FA Cup Third Round Clash

Liverpool secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Barnsley in the FA Cup third round at Anfield on January 12, 2026, avoiding a potential upset against lower-league opposition.[1][4]

Arne Slot's Reds, wary of last year's shock loss to Plymouth Argyle after heavy rotation, fielded a strong lineup featuring Mamardashvili in goal, defenders Robertson, van Dijk, Gomez, and Frimpong, midfielders Mac Allister, Jones, and Szoboszlai, plus attackers Ngumoha, Chiesa, and Gakpo.[2] Barnsley, inspired by Macclesfield's giant-killing of Crystal Palace, aimed for glory but faced a stern test.[1][2]

The match exploded into life early. Liverpool took the lead through Conor Bradley, assisted by dazzling play from Pedri (likely Chiesa in creative mode), with Bradley finishing neatly.[6] Jeremie Frimpong doubled the advantage in the 36th minute, darting into the box, switching to his left foot, and smashing past Barnsley's Murphy Cooper.[1]

Barnsley fought back shockingly just before halftime. Adam Phillips capitalized on a comical error by Szoboszlai, who botched a backheel in his own box, allowing Phillips to pounce and make it 2-1.[1] The Tykes leveled post-interval via a powerful header from Liam Lindsay, nodding in a pinpoint cross.[6]

Liverpool regained control with Curtis Jones rifling home a fine strike—his first goal since Boxing Day—clinching the 3-2 win amid tense moments, including a crucial defensive touch by Barnsley's Hughes.[6] Substitutes like Gravenberch, Konaté, and Alisson were poised but unused in the end.[2]

Slot's side advances, keeping quadruple dreams alive amid their Champions League push and Premier League title chase behind Arsenal. Barnsley's resilience embodied FA Cup magic, echoing Macclesfield's heroics and Wrexham's grit, but Liverpool's quality prevailed in a nail-biter.[1][2][3] Anfield erupted, reaction pouring in on Slot's rotation wisdom and Barnsley's near-miss.[1][6]

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