Liverpool Overcome Early Scare to Progress in FA Cup
Liverpool survived a moment of bizarre moment of madness from Dominik Szoboszlai to avoid an FA Cup shock to Sky Bet League One Barnsley with a sketchy 4-1 victory at Anfield. The match, played on 12th January 2026, saw the Reds navigate through a challenging tie to secure their place in the fourth round of English football’s oldest cup competition.
Szoboszlai Stars and Stumbles
The match showcased both the brilliance and fallibility of modern football. Dominik Szoboszlai opened the scoring in the 9th minute, followed by Jeremie Frimpong in the 36th minute, giving Liverpool a commanding lead. However, Szoboszlai showed a reckless arrogance with his attempted backheel inside his own six-yard area, which presented Adam Phillips with the opportunity in front of the Kop, allowing the former Liverpool trainee to pull one back for Barnsley just before halftime.
Substitutes Seal Victory
After a nervy period where League One side Barnsley pushed for an equaliser, Liverpool’s quality eventually told. Florian Wirtz curled home in the 84th minute to restore Liverpool’s two-goal cushion, before Hugo Ekitiké wrapped up the win late on. The victory ensures Liverpool moves on to the fourth round and a visit from Brighton & Hove Albion in what will be one of the glamor ties of the round.
Context and Implications
Liverpool currently sit 4th in the Premier League as defending champions, making cup competitions an important opportunity for silverware this season. Having learned a painful less in their exit at Plymouth last season, Liverpool’s head coach took no chances with his team selection, fielding a strong lineup that included established stars alongside promising youngsters. The victory extends an 11th match unbeaten run, though the performance highlighted areas needing improvement as Arne Slot’s side continues to compete on multiple fronts.
