Ecitike Determines Victory Before Red Card, Liverpool Eliminate Soton In Carabao Cup

Striker Hugo Ekitike became the determinant of Liverpool's 2-1 win over Southampton which was then carded red in the Carabao Cup match. (X/@LFC)

JAKARTA - Striker Alexander Isak scored Liverpool's first goal. But Hugo Ekitike, who was the winner before getting a red card when Liverpool beat Southampton 2-1 and got rid of him at the Carabao Cup in a duel at Anfield Stadium, Wednesday, September 24, 2025 in the morning WIB.

Liverpool's match was not easy when they played the third round of the Carabao Cup or the English League Cup even though they played at home.

Moreover, Liverpool did not play with the strongest team. Arne Slot's manager rotated the players by not playing captain Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah to goalkeeper Alisson.

On the other hand, young players and those who sit on bench more often have the opportunity to start. Among them Federico Chiesa and Japanese national team midfielder Wataru Endo. Slot also gave Isak, the most expensive player in the Premier League, the role of center forward.

Isak, who was bought for 125 million pounds from Newcastle United, also showed his ability. He broke the deadlock to open the Reds' victory in the 43rd minute.

Goals were created as a result of goalkeeper Alex McCarthy's mistake in giving the ball to his partner. However, Chiesa could grab the ball which then gave it to Isak.

Without difficulties, the Swedish national team striker broke into the Soton goal which this season played in the Championship Division or the second caste of the Premier League.

This was Isak's first goal since joining Liverpool. But before the creation of Isak's goal, Liverpool's goal almost conceded through midfielder Adam Amstrong's kick. It's just that his effort still hit the post.

Winning 1-0, the leader of the English Premier League standings tried to keep pressure on The Saint's defense. However, their efforts did not produce results so there was no change in the score until halftime.

In the second half, Soton tried to get up and keep up with the hosts' game. The visitors' efforts were not in vain.

In the 76th minute, substitute Shea Charles managed to break into Liverpool's goal to equalize the score. A goal was created when there was chaos which then Charles took advantage of a wild ball.

In 1-1 position, Liverpool again increased pressure. After many failures, Liverpool finally returned to the lead after Ekitike, who replaced Isak, broke the deadlock in the 85th minute.

Just a minute later, Ekitike got a second yellow card followed by a red card. Because of this, he took off his jersey while celebrating the goal.

Even though it was the decisive victory, Etikite's actions had irritated captain Andy Robertson. The reason is, Etiite already knew that she was pocketing a yellow card but instead took unnecessary actions that led to a red card.

"I was also surprised that he was acting up again [after getting a yellow card]," said Robertson. "Obviously these are two stupid cards that he received. We lost him in Saturday's match," he said again.

Despite playing with 10 people, Liverpool were still able to maintain their lead 2-1 until the end of the match. Liverpool also qualified for the fourth round.