BREAKING: Premier League have announced when Tottenham vs Liverpool will be replayed.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk confronted referee Stuart Attwell following their narrow 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. The controversy centered on Tottenham’s Lucas Bergvall, who scored the decisive goal in the 86th minute but was involved in a contentious refereeing decision. Liverpool players and fans were outraged, arguing Bergvall should have been sent off for a second yellow card after fouling Kostas Tsimikas shortly before his winning goal.
At just 18 years old, Bergvall scored his first goal for Spurs, giving his team a slight edge heading into the return leg at Anfield. However, his foul on Tsimikas, which came shortly after being booked for a challenge on Luis Diaz, fueled heated debates. Many felt the second foul was more severe than the first and should have led to his dismissal.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Van Dijk expressed his frustration with the referee’s decision. “It was clear it should’ve been a second yellow,” he said. “Everyone on the sidelines could see it.” While critical of the decision, the Dutch defender refrained from blaming the loss entirely on it. “I’m not saying that’s why we lost, but it was a pivotal moment,” he added.
Van Dijk also acknowledged Tottenham’s solid defensive display, which made it difficult for Liverpool to find the net. “We had good moments and chances but couldn’t finish,” he admitted. Reflecting on the performance, he emphasized the importance of staying focused and preparing for the second leg. “Our attention now shifts to Anfield,” he said.
He also noted Tottenham’s marked improvement since their recent 6-3 defeat to Liverpool. “They were much more solid defensively this time. We had our chances, but breaking them down was tough,” Van Dijk explained.
Despite the setback, Van Dijk remains confident in Liverpool’s ability to overturn the slim deficit at Anfield. He stressed the need to learn from their mistakes and make the most of their home advantage. The second leg will determine which team advances to the final, and Liverpool will be eager to deliver a strong performance in front of their supporters.
With the tie finely balanced, both teams are gearing up for what promises to be an intense showdown at Anfield, as Liverpool aims to secure a spot in the final.