Fixture: Liverpool vs Southampton

Competition: EFL (Carabao) Cup, 3rd Round

Date & Venue: Tuesday, September 23, 2025 — Anfield, Liverpool

Background & Stakes

Liverpool kick off their League Cup campaign at home, a competition they’ve historically taken seriously. With multiple titles in their cabinet (10 League Cups, record winners) they will want to maintain their strong tradition in this tournament.

Southampton, now in the Championship following relegation, come into this game under pressure. Their league form has been underwhelming, picking up just six points from six games. Despite this, cup competitions can offer them a reset an opportunity to build confidence, rotate the squad, and perhaps cause an upset.

Latest Team News & Absences

Liverpool

Key players like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai are confirmed to be rested. Slot is planning squad rotation.

Stefan Bajcetic remains out with a hamstring injury.

Southampton

They have their own injury concerns. Key absences include Welington.

Some players are doubtful or recovering, which may impact depth.

Head-to-Head & Recent Form

Historically, Liverpool have dominated this matchup. Southampton have only won once in many recent meetings, with Liverpool winning most of them.

Liverpool’s recent run is strong they’ve been winning regularly, though often needing late goals. Meanwhile, Southampton are struggling in their league campaign.

Tactical Thoughts & What to Expect

Liverpool are likely to field a rotated squad but still with enough quality to dominate possession and create chances. Expect younger players and fringe squad members to get a chance to impress.

Southampton will likely set up more defensively, hoping to catch Liverpool on the break or capitalize on set-pieces. Given their Championship schedule, they might see this as a chance to build momentum, but defensive solidity will be vital.

Predictions & Odds

Most previews and tipsters favor a Liverpool win. Scores like 3-1 are commonly predicted.

Betting markets lean heavily toward Liverpool, especially to win and possibly lead at half-time. Over 2.5 goals is expected in many previews.

Key Players to Watch

For Liverpool, even with some stars rested, expect strong performances from youth and squad players, perhaps someone like Rio Ngumoha could feature.

For Southampton, any attacking threat will likely come through set-pieces, counter-attacks, or from experienced players trying to exploit gaps.

Verdict

Liverpool should have enough depth and quality to progress, even with several first-team players rested. Southampton face an uphill task, but if they stay compact and disciplined, they may make Liverpool work for their goals. Expect Liverpool to advance, likely by a margin of 2-3 goals.

Predicted score: Liverpool 3-1 Southampton