Liverpool began their defence of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night as they defeat Derby County 3-2 on penalties at Anfield. A quiet first half saw few chances created from either side, but it was the hosts who should have gone in with the lead at the break after Fabio Carvalho combined with Layton Stewart who couldn’t keep his effort on target.
The Reds showed more intensity in the second half, though full control didn’t seem to be established until Jurgen Klopp’s triple substitution just after the hour mark, with Roberto Firmino, Darwin Nunez, and Harvey Elliott all introduced.
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Elliott had the best chance when Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain timed an intricate ball over Derby County’s defence, but Jurgen Klopp’s side were unable to stop the game from going to penalties after 90 minutes without a score.
Stefan Bajcetic missed Liverpool’s first, but three saves from Caoimhin Kelleher ensured Harvey Elliott could send the Reds through to the next round.
Positives
A world class display in the penalty shootout by Caoimhin Kelleher ensured Liverpool would make it through to the next round. A strong result for the champions who go through to the next round after trusting their squad to get the job done.
Negatives
No negatives after a solid performance, though some could argue that Liverpool tempted fate in the competition by deploying a youthful team.
Manager Rating (out of 10)
Jurgen Klopp, 6 — A well-timed triple substitution saw Klopp introduce his senior players at the right time, and his side controlled the game despite making multiple changes.
