Liverpool Knocked Out In The FA Cup, Arne Slot Doesn't Question Penalty

JAKARTA - Plymouth Argyle made a big surprise on Sunday, February 9, 2025, when they eliminated Liverpool from the FA Cup Fourth Round with a 1-0 win.

Ryan Hardie's penalty in the 53rd minute after Harvey Elliott's handball was proven decisive as Arne Slot's side lost for the fourth time this season in all competitions.

Slot rested many of his star players for the game - with Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo not included in the squad on match day.

He had to pay the price as Plymouth claimed one of the most famous wins in history, while ending Liverpool's pursuit of four titles in an unprecedented season.

Conor Hazard's goalkeeper and center-back Nikola Katic are an important part of the backline effort that put Plymouth ahead.

Hazard made a series of saves in second-half injury time which will undoubtedly continue to be remembered in the memory of the home fans who attended Home Park.

Meanwhile, the leader of the Premier League, Liverpool, ran out of ideas and had only one shot on target in the first half. They were forced to make early substitutions when defender Joe Gomez was injured.

They raised the tempo after falling behind, but Hazard proved to be a hero to Plymouth as the Northern Ireland player brilliantly parried Diogo Jota's volley and Darwin Nunez's header.

After making 10 changes to the team that beat Tottenham Hotspur 4-0 in second leg of Carabao Cup Anfield in the middle of last week, Slot did not regret his player election against Plymouth.

Nunez was the only starting player the Dutch coach took off the bench in the 58th minute as Liverpool chased down the equalizer.

"There is no regret because we have seen it several times, the style of play is indeed difficult."

"I think today shows why we played with the players we used. They need momentum to be ready for the months to come. We saw it today," Slot said after the game.

Arne Slot further also did not question the penalty prize given by the referee to the host.

According to him, the match went fairly without debate. The defeat was indeed based on how the Reds played.

"The result is clear, very disappointing. The way we play, not much to be proud of."

"The kids kept fighting for 100 minutes. They kept fighting, but praise for Plymouth."

"Playmouth's game plan is good, work hard. It's a clear penalty, the right decision," said Arne Slot again.