Anfield, Liverpool—October 29, 2025
Crystal Palace delivered a ruthless performance to dismantle a youthful Liverpool side 3–0 at Anfield, booking their place in the fifth round of the Carabao Cup and handing Arne Slot’s men their sixth defeat in seven matches across all competitions.
Goals from Ismaila Sarr (2) and Yeremy Pino sealed the win for Palace, who have now beaten Liverpool three times in 80 days—a remarkable run that includes victories in the Community Shield, Premier League, and now the League Cup.
“We were sharp, clinical, and brave,” said Palace manager Oliver Glasner. “The boys executed the plan perfectly.”
🧒 Liverpool’s Gamble Backfires
Arne Slot opted to rest key players ahead of upcoming clashes against Aston Villa, Real Madrid, and Manchester City, fielding a heavily rotated XI that included teenagers Kieran Morrison, Rio Ngumoha, and Trey Nyoni.
The decision proved costly. Liverpool lacked cohesion and struggled to cope with Palace’s intensity. Summer signings Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz were again absent, while Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk were rested.
“It was a gamble that never looked like working,” said former Liverpool captain Jamie Carragher on Sky Sports.
⚽ How the Goals Came
41’: Joe Gomez’s error allowed Sarr to rifle home from 12 yards.
45+1’: Pino squared for Sarr to tap in his second, silencing the Kop.
88’: Pino added a third after Liverpool substitute Amara Nallo was sent off for a professional foul on Justin Devenny.
Palace’s pressing and transitional play overwhelmed Liverpool, who managed just two shots on target all night.
📉 Liverpool’s Slide
The Reds have now lost four consecutive league matches and sit seven points behind leaders Arsenal. Their title challenge is fading, and questions are mounting over Slot’s tactical decisions and squad rotation.
“We’re in a difficult moment,” Slot admitted. “But we have to stay calm and trust the process.”
Liverpool fans booed at full-time, with many calling for a return to a more experienced lineup in upcoming fixtures.
🏆 Palace’s Cup Momentum
Palace, who won the FA Cup last season, are building a reputation as cup specialists. Their blend of youth and experience—led by Sarr, Pino, and captain Marc Guehi—has made them one of the most dangerous sides outside the traditional top six.
They’ll face Arsenal in the quarter-finals, a rematch of last season’s FA Cup semi-final.
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