In a dramatic night of EFL Cup action on October 29, Liverpool suffered a surprising 3-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at Anfield, marking their elimination from the competition in the fourth round. This loss represents the third time Liverpool has been beaten by Crystal Palace since the start of the 2024-25 season.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot opted to bench several key players for the Crystal Palace clash, citing the need for rest and energy conservation amidst a demanding schedule of English Premier League and European Cup fixtures. However, this strategic rotation did not yield the desired outcome, as the Reds succumbed to their sixth loss in their last seven games this season, highlighting a challenging start to their campaign.
Crystal Palace seized the opportunity, with midfielder Ismaila Sarr netting a brace in the 41st and 45th minutes. Teammate Yeremy Pino sealed the impressive victory with a third goal in the 88th minute. For Liverpool, last season’s Premier League contenders, this early exit from the EFL Cup is a significant setback, particularly as it marks the first time since 1934 that the club has lost a domestic cup tie at Anfield by a 3-0 margin, a record previously set against Bolton in the FA Cup 91 years ago.
Following the match, a visibly frustrated Slot voiced his disappointment, urging his team to rediscover their winning form and emphasizing the importance of every game for a club of Liverpool’s stature. The defeat to Crystal Palace adds to a growing pattern, with the Eagles having already defeated Liverpool in the FA Community Shield season opener and later in the Premier League with a 2-1 scoreline, prior to this EFL Cup upset.
Elsewhere in the competition, defending champions Newcastle United successfully navigated their fourth-round tie, securing a 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at St James’ Park to book their place in the quarter-finals. Arsenal also advanced by defeating Brighton & Hove Albion 2-0. Manchester City demonstrated their strength, overcoming fellow Premier League side Swansea City with a 3-1 win. In a thrilling, high-scoring affair at Molineux Stadium, Chelsea emerged victorious against hosts Wolverhampton Wanderers in a 4-3 encounter, also progressing to the next stage.
