Tottenham Hotspur emerged victorious in a tightly contested Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool, thanks to a dramatic late goal by Lucas Bergvall. The match, played at Tottenham's home ground, saw the hosts secure a 1-0 win despite facing numerous challenges throughout the game. Ange Postecoglou's side had to navigate significant adversity, including injuries and a controversial refereeing decision, yet managed to hold off their rivals and put themselves in a favorable position ahead of the second leg at Anfield.
In the 86th minute, Lucas Bergvall scored the decisive goal that sent Tottenham fans into a frenzy. However, the goal was not without controversy. Bergvall had earlier received a yellow card for a sliding challenge on Liverpool's Luis Diaz, and Liverpool's players appealed for a foul before the goal was scored. Despite these protests, referee Stuart Attwell allowed play to continue, and Bergvall capitalized on the opportunity to secure a vital win for his team.
"We're having to deal with adversity all the time. We started the game awfully well, and almost scored just before [the Bentancur injury]. Then we lose a key player in those kinds of circumstances. But all my players are resilient and they keep going, and they did that today." – Ange Postecoglou
Tottenham's squad was already under pressure with several key players missing due to injuries and suspensions. The situation worsened when midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was stretchered off in the first half, adding to the team's woes. Despite these setbacks, Tottenham showcased resilience and determination, traits that their manager believes could mark a turning point after a recent four-game winless streak.
Liverpool, on the other hand, had their share of frustrations during the match. A potential equalizing goal by Dominic Solanke was disallowed following a VAR review for offside. In a first for English football, referee Attwell announced the VAR decision over the public address system, adding to the drama of the evening. Liverpool's coach expressed his discontent with the decisions and was subsequently booked for his protests.
"It was quite obvious I think and everyone on the sidelines knew it was supposed to be a yellow. There is a linesman there, a fourth official, there is VAR and a referee, and he doesn't get a second yellow. I'm not saying this is the reason we lost today, but it was a big moment in the game." – Virgil van Dijk
Tottenham's new signing, goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, made his debut and impressed with crucial saves, particularly in second-half stoppage time. His performance helped preserve Tottenham's slender lead and provided a glimpse of his potential as a key player for the team moving forward.
The match itself was characterized by errors and a lack of clear chances from both sides. Unlike their previous Premier League encounter in December, where Liverpool triumphed 6-3 over Tottenham, this match was much closer and highlighted Tottenham's defensive solidity.
Liverpool's boss, Arne Slot, acknowledged that his team had control after the first 20 minutes but admitted that Bergvall's goal shifted the momentum in favor of Tottenham.
"I never felt we were going to lose this game." – Arne Slot
As both teams prepare for the second leg at Anfield on February 6th, Tottenham will look to build on this victory and continue their development under Postecoglou's leadership. For Liverpool, it presents an opportunity to regroup and mount a comeback on their home turf.
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