In a thrilling encounter at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, 18-year-old Lucas Bergvall scored his first goal for Tottenham Hotspur, clinching a surprise 1-0 victory over holders Liverpool in the first leg of the English League Cup semifinals on Wednesday.
The young Swede rifled a superb finish past Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson in the 86th minute, igniting celebrations among the injury-hit hosts. Just moments earlier, Tottenham had seen a goal from Dominic Solanke ruled out, but Bergvall’s late strike ensured they capitalized on their opportunity.
Liverpool, who lifted the trophy for a record 10th time last season after defeating Chelsea, were far from their best. Their 24-match unbeaten run in all competitions came to an unexpected end, and they had reason to feel aggrieved. Bergvall, who had already been booked, escaped a second yellow card for a foul on Kostas Tsimikas shortly before scoring the decisive goal.
“He should have been off; it was a big moment,” lamented Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. The decision left the visitors frustrated as they head into the second leg at Anfield needing to overturn the deficit.
Despite the setback, manager Arne Slot’s side remains confident about their chances of progressing. “We believe we can turn it around at home,” said Slot, whose team has only suffered their second loss of the season.
The other semifinal saw Newcastle United secure a 2-0 away victory against Arsenal on Tuesday, setting up an intriguing second leg.
Tottenham’s victory was particularly sweet given their recent struggles. With only three wins in their previous 14 matches across all competitions and a squad decimated by injuries, expectations were low. Midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was stretchered off early in the game after a worrying fall, adding to manager Ange Postecoglou’s concerns.
The hosts handed a debut to new goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, who put on an impressive display to keep Liverpool at bay. Despite dominating possession, Liverpool looked lethargic and failed to convert their control into goals.
Bergvall’s standout performance highlighted his immense potential, becoming Tottenham’s youngest scorer in the League Cup since Gareth Bale in 2007. The victory also eases some pressure on Postecoglou, who had previously stated that he always wins a trophy in his second season at a club. Recent results had raised doubts, but this win could mark a turning point for the Australian manager and his team.
The stage is now set for an exciting second leg at Anfield next month, with both teams vying for a place in the final.
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Tottenham Hotspur defeat Liverpool in first leg of EFL Cup semifinals
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