Liverpool progress despite Szoboszlai error in FA Cup win over Barnsley
Liverpool booked their place in the fourth round of the FA Cup with a 4-1 victory over Barnsley at Anfield, but the result was overshadowed by a costly moment of flair from Dominik Szoboszlai that briefly brought the tie back to life.
The Reds appeared in full control after racing into a 2-0 lead through Szoboszlai and Jeremie Frimpong, only for the Hungarian midfielder to gift the visitors a route back into the contest just before half time with a failed backheel inside his own penalty area.
Barnsley capitalised immediately on the mistake as Adam Phillips reacted quickest to drill the ball past the goalkeeper, reducing the deficit and injecting unexpected tension into a match Liverpool had been dominating.
The incident proved a rare blemish on an otherwise comfortable evening for the Premier League side, who eventually asserted their quality in the second half to avoid any danger of an upset. However, the moment carried wider significance, drawing criticism from both Barnsley head coach Conor Hourihane and Liverpool manager Arne Slot.
Anfield was in a relaxed mood early on as Liverpool dictated possession and tempo, with Frimpong’s energy down the flank causing repeated problems. Barnsley were pinned deep for long spells and struggled to cope with the speed of Liverpool’s passing in midfield.
That sense of control evaporated momentarily when Szoboszlai attempted a casual clearance under no pressure. The backheel went astray, inviting Barnsley forward and allowing Phillips, a former Liverpool academy player, to score in front of the Kop.
The goal altered the atmosphere inside the stadium and lifted the visitors, who sensed an opportunity they had not created themselves. It also prompted visible frustration on the Liverpool bench.
Slot was animated on the touchline, aware that such lapses have crept into his side’s game during periods of comfort this season. The Liverpool coach later acknowledged that conceding in those circumstances shifts belief and momentum in the opposition’s favour.
Liverpool steadied themselves after the break and restored order with sharper passing and greater urgency. Chances began to flow again as Barnsley were forced deeper, with Frimpong continuing to stretch the play and create openings.
The hosts added further goals in the second half to remove any lingering doubt, turning a potentially awkward evening back into a routine progression. Barnsley faded as Liverpool’s depth and intensity told.
For Phillips, the goal remained a personal highlight despite the defeat, marking a memorable return to Anfield even as his side bowed out of the competition.
Liverpool now move on to a fourth round meeting with Brighton, a fixture that promises a far sterner examination. Slot will expect a more ruthless edge against Premier League opposition, while Szoboszlai will be keen to ensure his next contribution draws attention for the right reasons rather than reopening a contest that should have been settled.