Liverpool secured their place in the League Cup final with a commanding 4-0 victory on Thursday, intensifying the scrutiny on Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou.
The Reds’ goals came from Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai and Virgil van Dijk, setting up a Wembley clash with Newcastle on March 16 for the season’s first trophy.
In Arne Slot’s inaugural season, Liverpool continue their pursuit of four trophies. They lead the Premier League by six points, have advanced to the Champions League last 16, and face Plymouth in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday.
Tottenham’s wait for silverware continues since their last triumph in 2008. Postecoglou’s pledge to secure a trophy in his second season faces another setback.
The Australian manager’s position could be at risk if they falter against Aston Villa in the FA Cup, whilst struggling in 14th place in the Premier League.
Slot demonstrated his commitment to the League Cup by fielding his strongest available side, with Caoimhin Kelleher replacing Alisson Becker in goal for cup matches.
Tottenham’s injury-hit defence saw Kevin Danso make his debut, while Mathys Tel came on early after Richarlison’s injury departure.
Liverpool overcame their 1-0 first leg deficit, maintaining their recent scoring form against Spurs at Anfield.
After a measured start, the hosts gained momentum. Szoboszlai’s initial effort was ruled offside, but Gakpo soon became the competition’s leading scorer with his fifth goal.
Antonin Kinsky denied Salah initially, but Richarlison’s injury further weakened Tottenham’s depleted attacking options.
Missing several key forwards including Dominic Solanke, Brennan Johnson, James Maddison, Timo Werner and Wilson Odobert, Tottenham struggled to respond.
Early in the second half, Kinsky fouled Nunez, allowing Salah to convert his 26th goal this season from the penalty spot.
Liverpool maintained pressure with Gakpo and Gravenberch hitting the woodwork.
Szoboszlai added a third goal, assisted by the impressive Connor Bradley, who filled in for the injured Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Van Dijk completed the scoring with a header from a corner, emphasising Tottenham’s defensive frailties.
Newcastle, who defeated Arsenal 4-0 on aggregate in their semi-final, seek to end their 56-year trophy drought but face a formidable challenge against Slot’s in-form side.
