Liverpool’s recent history with the Carabao Cup has been a rewarding one, but few players have formed as special a connection with this competition as Cody Gakpo.
The Dutchman once again demonstrated his affinity for the cup, netting his seventh goal in just eight Carabao Cup appearances, this time finding the target in Liverpool’s match against Brighton.
The scoring play unfolded in a moment that highlighted the teamwork and vision within Liverpool’s lineup. It began with Andy Robertson, whose aerial prowess allowed him to win a critical header. That set the stage for Tyler Morton to step up with a remarkable piece of skill. Morton, seeing an opportunity, delivered a perfectly timed, first-touch lofted pass to Gakpo, who was poised to make the most of it. His ball soared accurately toward Gakpo, Liverpool’s No. 18, whose ability to exploit that space on the left flank has become his trademark.
Gakpo’s positioning on the left wing put him in familiar territory, a spot from which he’s delivered time and again. Collecting Morton’s pass, he set his sights on goal with a move that’s becoming a signature for him: cutting in from the left, shaking off the defender, and setting up a powerful shot. This time was no different. Gakpo unleashed a fierce strike, sending the ball straight into the back of the net and lighting up the start of the second half for the Reds.
The play was as precise as it was powerful, a demonstration of his finishing abilities that even his teammates had been praising before the game. Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool’s Hungarian midfielder, had been lauded for his own shooting skills before kickoff, but it seems he may now have to return the compliment to Gakpo after witnessing that spectacular strike.
Liverpool entered the Brighton game with a lineup that departed from their usual setup, offering fans a look at some of the club’s young talents and squad players. For the first 45 minutes, the Reds seemed to be finding their rhythm, adjusting to the slightly experimental formation. Then came Gakpo’s goal, arriving at the start of the second half to kick things up a notch. It was a well-timed spark that invigorated Liverpool’s gameplay, reminding everyone why Gakpo has been such a dependable force in the Carabao Cup.
The Dutch winger’s ability to perform in these critical moments has clearly cemented him as a valuable asset, not only for Liverpool but particularly in this cup competition. His confidence in cutting inside from the left and striking with precision has made him a constant threat for defenders. As a former captain of PSV, Gakpo brings a level of composure and maturity that belies his relatively short time at Liverpool. Since arriving at Anfield, he has demonstrated an impressive capacity to step up in big moments, and his performances in the Carabao Cup have exemplified this.
Ensuring that Gakpo continues to play in his preferred role on the left could be a key tactic for Liverpool as they aim to advance in the Carabao Cup. The more the Reds utilize him in this space, the more likely he is to produce similar match-changing moments. As a player much loved by fans, Gakpo has quickly become a dependable figure, showing not only his skill but also a knack for delivering in high-stakes situations.
For Liverpool supporters, watching Gakpo shine in the Carabao Cup has become a highlight in itself. His relentless drive to find the net and contribute to the team’s success embodies the spirit of Liverpool’s current squad. As he adds more goals to his Carabao Cup tally, there’s little doubt that Gakpo will continue to be a crucial part of Liverpool’s journey in the competition this season. The Dutchman’s connection with the Carabao Cup is unique, and his recent performance against Brighton only deepened that bond, making it clear that he is poised to be a defining figure for Liverpool in this tournament.
You can view Gakpo’s goal via @SkyFootball on X:
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