Liverpool required a late goal to see off Championship side Southampton 2-1 in the Carabao Cup third round at Anfield on 23 September 2025. The match will be remembered primarily for one landmark moment: Alexander Isak scoring his first goal for Liverpool, a composed near-post finish that justified every penny of the record-breaking transfer fee that brought him to Merseyside from Newcastle United. However, the evening ended on a sour note for substitute Hugo Ekitike, whose winner was accompanied by a yellow card for removing his shirt in celebration, a second booking that resulted in the young Frenchman being sent off moments after becoming a match hero.
Manager Arne Slot made eleven changes from the Merseyside derby win at the weekend, with Isak and teenage debutant Rio Ngumoha among the most eye-catching inclusions in a heavily rotated lineup.
Isak’s Long-Awaited First Goal
Alexander Isak opened the scoring with a smart near-post finish after just 44 seconds of the match, reacting quickest to Federico Chiesa’s pass and slotting the ball home with the efficiency that made him so coveted by clubs across Europe. The goal was the moment Anfield had been waiting for, and the reception Isak received from the supporters underlined how highly he is regarded at the club despite having been at Liverpool for only a brief period at that point.
Isak, who has revealed he had no pre-season due to international duty, was substituted at half-time as part of a carefully managed return to full fitness. His 44-second contribution was nonetheless hugely significant for his confidence and for the club’s belief that their record signing will fulfil his enormous potential in the months ahead.
Southampton Fight Back
Southampton, competing as a Championship club at that point following their relegation from the Premier League, showed genuine quality and determination throughout the match. They equalised to make the game far more competitive than the gap in class between the clubs might have suggested, and Liverpool were forced to work significantly harder than anticipated to find a winner.
Southampton captain Adam Armstrong went close to what would have been a famous winner when he chipped a shot against the crossbar, with Leo Scienza heading the rebound wide of an open goal. It was a moment that encapsulated the fortune that can determine cup results against lower-league opposition.
Ekitike Wins It but Pays the Price
The match’s dramatic conclusion arrived when substitute Hugo Ekitike finished well to give Liverpool the lead for the second time and send them through to the Carabao Cup fourth round. However, Ekitike, who was already on a yellow card, removed his shirt in celebration to show his name on the back to the cameras, a moment of exuberance that cost him dearly. Referee Craig Pawson showed him a second yellow card, reducing Liverpool to ten men but with the match already effectively won. Ekitike’s suspension means Isak will almost certainly start the next Premier League fixture.
Match Summary and Key Stats
- Competition: English Carabao Cup 2025-26, Third Round
- Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
- Date: 23 September 2025
- Result: Liverpool 2 – 1 Southampton
- Goals: Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool) | Southampton equaliser
- Red Card: Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool) – second yellow
- Man of the Match: Alexander Isak (Liverpool)
Watch the Full Match Highlights and Replay
Watch the full match replay and highlights of Liverpool vs Southampton from the Carabao Cup on 23 September 2025 right here on AllSportsZone. Free, HD quality, available on any device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of Liverpool vs Southampton in the Carabao Cup on 23 September 2025?
Liverpool beat Southampton 2-1 at Anfield in the Carabao Cup third round. Alexander Isak scored his first Liverpool goal and Hugo Ekitike added the winner.
Did Alexander Isak score his first Liverpool goal against Southampton?
Yes. Isak scored his first Liverpool goal in the 44th second of the match, finishing smartly at the near post after a Federico Chiesa pass. He was substituted at half-time as part of his managed return to full fitness.
Where can I watch Liverpool vs Southampton Carabao Cup highlights?
Full match highlights and the complete replay are available right here on AllSportsZone, free and in HD quality on any device.