Liverpool advanced in the Carabao Cup after a 3-1 victory over Tottenham, despite manager Andoni Iraola making 10 changes to his side. Cody Gakpo, who Tottenham reportedly tried to sign in the summer, scored against them, contributing to their elimination from the competition.
Alexis Mac Allister also found the net for Liverpool, with Dominik Szoboszlai securing the win with a spectacular long-range half-volley in added time. The committed display from Liverpool's youthful side, including academy products Lewis Koumas and James McConnell, was seen as an endorsement of Iraola's strategy.
Tottenham, who have not won domestic silverware for 18 years, managed to end a goalless streak against Premier League opposition when Conor Gallagher headed in a corner. However, their defeat, marked by a perceived lack of urgency and the decision to bench many big-money signings, was described as an indictment of Roberto De Zerbi.