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Liverpool secured a 4-1 win over League One side Barnsley to progress in the FA Cup third round, but the scoreline masked a nervy evening at Anfield marked by individual errors and defensive lapses.

Arne Slot’s side, fielding a strong lineup, were pushed harder than expected by opponents ranked 57 places below them.

While Liverpool ultimately had too much quality, the match again exposed inconsistencies that have crept into their performances in recent months.

FA Cup: Liverpool beat Barnsley as Szoboszlai redeems error
Szoboszlai error helped Barnsley score a consolation goal – Getty image

Early goals and Barnsley response

Liverpool opened the scoring inside the first 10 minutes when Dominik Szoboszlai struck from range to register his first FA Cup goal. The early breakthrough suggested a routine night, but Barnsley refused to retreat.

The visitors threatened almost immediately, with Davis Keilor-Dunn striking the post in the opening minute and later forcing Giorgi Mamardashvilli into further saves. Their positive approach unsettled Liverpool and kept the contest alive.

Jeremie Frimpong doubled Liverpool’s advantage midway through the first half with a decisive finish after cutting inside from the right, seemingly putting the tie out of reach before the break.

Szoboszlai error gives Barnsley hope

Barnsley were handed a route back into the game shortly before half-time following a costly mistake by Szoboszlai.

Attempting a casual backheel inside his own box, the midfielder gifted possession to former Liverpool academy player Adam Phillips, who converted from close range.

The goal injected tension into Anfield and briefly raised the prospect of another FA Cup upset, particularly as Liverpool struggled to regain control early in the second half.

Late goals settle the tie

Slot responded by introducing Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike and Ibrahima Konaté, a move that restored composure and authority. Wirtz made an immediate impact, extending Liverpool’s lead with a well-taken goal, before Ekitike added a fourth late on to secure progression.

The win sends Liverpool into the next round, where they will face Brighton, though the performance is unlikely to fully reassure Slot as his side looks to rediscover the consistency that underpinned last season’s domestic success.



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