Image Source: The Guardian
Liverpool – Tottenham has produced an early flashpoint at Anfield, with Alexis Mac Allister giving Liverpool a 1-0 lead in the third round of the Carabao Cup. The Argentine midfielder struck in the 21st minute after Tottenham had enjoyed the brighter start and controlled much of the early play.
The match, played on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, brought together two heavily rotated teams. Liverpool made a sweeping set of changes after their goalless Premier League draw with Fulham, while Tottenham retained only three players from their weekend draw against Everton.
Explosive Liverpool – Tottenham start at Anfield
Tottenham began with confidence and pressed Liverpool high up the pitch. The visitors were quicker in midfield, won several challenges and created promising openings through Mohammed Kudus, Destiny Udogie and Omar Marmoush.
One of their best chances arrived in the 11th minute. Udogie raced down the left and delivered a low cross into the penalty area, where Lucas Bergvall found space eight yards from goal. The Swedish midfielder directed a powerful side-footed effort towards the bottom corner, but Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili reacted brilliantly to block the shot with his leg.
That save briefly kept Liverpool level during a period when Tottenham appeared more assured in possession. The visitors also recorded a significant advantage in the final third, completing 20 successful passes in that area compared with Liverpool’s three during the opening stages.
Mac Allister produces a decisive finish
Liverpool gradually found a foothold, particularly through Cody Gakpo and teenage winger Rio Ngumoha. Gakpo moved in from the left before switching play across the pitch to Ngumoha, who carried the ball forward and attempted to find a teammate inside the box.
The pass took a deflection and fell perfectly for Mac Allister on the edge of the area. The midfielder opened his body and guided a controlled side-footed finish into the top-right corner. Martin Dubravka was rooted to the spot and had no chance of stopping the shot.
The goal was especially notable because Mac Allister scored in a similar fashion when Liverpool sealed the 2024-25 Premier League title against Tottenham. His latest strike immediately changed the mood inside Anfield, with Liverpool appearing calmer and Spurs temporarily subdued.
Key developments from the first half:
- Alexis Mac Allister put Liverpool ahead in the 21st minute.
- Tottenham started strongly and dominated early midfield exchanges.
- Giorgi Mamardashvili made an outstanding save to deny Lucas Bergvall.
- Martin Dubravka was beaten by Mac Allister’s precise finish.
- Both clubs made major changes to their starting lineups.
Rotated lineups add intrigue to Carabao Cup tie
Liverpool’s lineup included Mamardashvili in goal, with Jeremie Frimpong, Ronald Araújo, Joe Gomez and Milos Kerkez forming the defensive unit. Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexander Isak were among the substitutes, giving manager Arne Slot attacking and midfield options for the second half.
Gomez’s return was another positive development for Liverpool. The defender came back into the starting lineup after his latest injury lay-off and partnered Araújo in central defence. Liverpool were also without several regular starters, underlining the importance of squad depth during a demanding schedule.
Tottenham’s team featured Dubravka behind Archie Gray, Tosin Adarabioyo, Marcos Senesi and Udogie. Rodrigo Bentancur and Bergvall operated in midfield, while Kudus, Gallagher, Mathys Tel and Marmoush provided attacking support.
The visitors also had experienced options on the bench, including James Maddison, Dominic Solanke and former Liverpool captain Andy Robertson. Robertson made 378 appearances for Liverpool and could face his former club if introduced later in the contest.
What happens next in Liverpool – Tottenham?
The early goal has given Liverpool greater control, but the tie remains open. Tottenham’s first-half performance showed that the visitors can threaten Liverpool’s defence, particularly when they move the ball quickly into wide areas.
Liverpool, meanwhile, will hope Mac Allister’s goal provides the platform for a stronger performance. The Reds entered the match without an English-team victory at Anfield this season, while Tottenham had failed to score in four matches against top-flight opposition.
Recent meetings between the clubs have rarely been quiet. Their previous encounters have featured high-scoring victories, late equalisers, dramatic winners and red cards. With both managers using the Carabao Cup to assess younger players and squad members, further twists remain possible.
The match is being officiated by Andrew Madley, and there is no VAR in operation for the fixture. That could add another layer of uncertainty to a contest already shaped by unfamiliar lineups and emerging players.
Frequently asked questions
Who scored first in Liverpool – Tottenham?
Alexis Mac Allister scored first for Liverpool in the 21st minute with a precise side-footed finish from the edge of the penalty area.
What competition is Liverpool playing Tottenham in?
The teams are meeting in the third round of the Carabao Cup, also known as the League Cup.
Who made the key early save?
Giorgi Mamardashvili made a superb reaction save to deny Tottenham midfielder Lucas Bergvall from close range.
Did both teams make changes?
Yes. Liverpool made nine changes from their Premier League draw with Fulham, while Tottenham retained three starters from their draw against Everton.
Is VAR being used?
No. The match is being played without VAR, meaning on-field decisions will stand without video review.
