On September 23, 2025, Liverpool fans at Anfield witnessed an exciting 2-1 victory over Southampton in the League Cup third round. The match had it all: a debut goal, a late winner, and a surprising red card. Alexander Isak, Liverpool’s record-breaking signing, opened his account for the club, while Hugo Ekitike sealed the win but got sent off for a celebration mistake. The game showed Liverpool’s depth and grit, even with a completely changed lineup. Here’s a breakdown of the action and other key League Cup results from the night.
Isak’s Big Moment and Ekitike’s Drama
Liverpool’s new star, Alexander Isak, made headlines. The Swedish striker, signed for a massive 125 million pounds ($169.04 million) from Newcastle United, scored his first goal for the Reds in the 43rd minute. It came just 38 seconds after Southampton’s Adam Armstrong hit the crossbar, missing a big chance. Federico Chiesa, a key playmaker, set up Isak with a sharp cut-back pass. Isak slotted it home coolly, proving his worth in only his second start.
“It’s still early, a new club and new teammates, but I feel good,” Isak said after the game. He missed a shot in the first minute and admitted he needs more game time to hit top form after a long transfer saga. Fans are excited to see more from the pricey striker.
The game stayed tight. Southampton fought back with a goal from Shea Charles in the 76th minute. Liverpool’s midfielder Wataru Endo made a costly error, letting Charles score. But Ekitike, who came on for Isak at halftime, kept Liverpool perfect this season. In the 85th minute, Chiesa assisted again, and Ekitike tapped in the winner. Joy turned to shock when Ekitike took off his shirt to celebrate. Already on a yellow card, he got a second and was sent off.
Captain Andy Robertson called it “silly.” “It’s two silly bookings,” he told Sky Sports. “He’s only young and he’ll learn from it.” Ekitike’s red card means he misses Liverpool’s next Premier League game against Crystal Palace. It’s a lesson for the young forward, but the win keeps Liverpool rolling.
Other League Cup Highlights
The night wasn’t just about Liverpool. Eight other League Cup games brought upsets and big performances:
- Brighton’s Big Win: Paraguayan star Diego Gomez stole the show, scoring four goals, including a 24-minute first-half hat-trick. Brighton crushed third-tier Barnsley 6-0, reaching the fourth round for the fifth time in six years.
- Chelsea’s Comeback: Club World Cup champs Chelsea faced a scare at third-tier Lincoln City. Down 1-0 at halftime, they rallied. Teenager Tyrique George equalized in the 48th minute and set up Facundo Buonanotte’s winner two minutes later for a 2-1 victory.
- Cardiff’s Upset: Third-tier Cardiff City shocked Premier League Burnley, winning 2-1 at Turf Moor. It was the night’s biggest surprise.
- Wolves Beat Everton: Premier League’s last-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers won 2-0 against Everton. Everton’s James Garner hit the bar, and Jack Grealish came off the bench, but Wolves held firm.
- Wrexham’s Hollywood Night: Second-tier Wrexham, backed by their celebrity owners, beat Reading 2-0. Nathan Broadhead scored both goals, sending Wrexham to the fourth round for the first time since 1977.
- Fulham Move On: Premier League Fulham edged fourth-tier Cambridge United 1-0. Emile Smith Rowe’s 66th-minute goal sealed it.
Swansea City, Grimsby Town, Brentford, and Crystal Palace also advanced. More big teams like Newcastle United, Arsenal, Tottenham, and Manchester City play on Wednesday.
Why This Matters for Fans
The League Cup, also called the Carabao Cup, is a chance for teams to shine early in the season. For Liverpool, the win keeps their perfect record alive. Isak’s goal is a sign he’s settling in. At 125 million pounds, expectations are sky-high. Chiesa’s two assists show he’s a game-changer. But Ekitike’s red card is a reminder that young players can slip up.
For smaller clubs like Cardiff and Wrexham, these games are huge. Beating top teams builds pride and history. Fans love the underdog stories. Brighton’s Gomez, with four goals, is now a name to watch.
What’s Next in the League Cup?
Wednesday’s games will heat things up. Newcastle, the defending champs, face Bradford City. Arsenal, Tottenham, and Manchester City are also in action. These matches could bring more surprises or dominant wins.
Liverpool’s win sets them up for a deeper run. But Ekitike’s absence might hurt in the Premier League. Isak, though, looks ready to step up. “I think with all the games I get I’m only going to get better,” he said. Fans hope he’s right.
The League Cup is just getting started. With big names and small clubs battling, it’s a tournament full of drama. Liverpool’s mix of new stars and costly mistakes shows why it’s so exciting.
