Tottenham earned a well-deserved win over Liverpool in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, thanks to an impressive defensive performance and high pressing on the Reds’ players. In the first half, Tottenham effectively disrupted Liverpool’s build-up play, applying tight marking on Gravenberch and Mac Allister, forcing Liverpool to resort to inaccurate long balls.
Defensively, Ange Postecoglou’s side was flawless, making sure not to leave any space for Liverpool’s attacking players, with particular focus on shutting down Salah and Gakpo. The Australian coach learned from his team’s heavy defeat in the league against Liverpool and handled the high-pressure situation with much more composure.
Tottenham Stuns Liverpool with Clinical Performance in Carabao Cup Semi-Final
Liverpool continued to struggle for the second consecutive match, unable to break free from Tottenham’s high press. This led to a noticeable drop in midfield performance, and the team appeared slow and less effective. The absence of Konaté was crucial, as his poor positioning allowed Solanke to score Tottenham's goal. Curtis Jones also failed to make an impact on the match.
Arne Slot’s substitutions failed to change the game, especially with the decision to take Gakpo, Liverpool’s main threat, off the field, while Nunez couldn't produce anything of significance.
Despite Liverpool's defeat, the return leg at Anfield remains a chance for them to make a comeback and qualify, but given their current form, the team may face difficulties in maintaining the same level of intensity that saw them start the season strongly.
