Alexander Isak Shines in Liverpool's EFL Cup Victory Over Southampton

Isak's First Goal for Liverpool

In a thrilling EFL Carabao Cup third-round match, Alexander Isak netted his inaugural goal for Liverpool, leading the team to a 2-1 victory against Southampton. This match marked Isak's third appearance since his record-breaking £125 million ($169 million) transfer from Newcastle on the deadline day.

The 26-year-old striker had previously struggled to score, failing to find the net in his debut against Atletico Madrid and during a brief stint in the Merseyside derby against Everton.

Isak finally broke his scoring drought in the 43rd minute when Southampton's goalkeeper Alex McCarthy attempted a short pass that was intercepted by Federico Chiesa, who set up Isak for a straightforward finish.

This goal served as a late birthday gift for Isak, who celebrated his 26th birthday just days prior.

Match Highlights

Alexander Isak reflected on the 'amazing' feeling of scoring his first goal for the Reds ⚽️

Isak, who had previously scored for Newcastle in their League Cup final against Liverpool last season, was substituted at halftime as he continues to regain fitness after missing pre-season training due to transfer negotiations.

Shea Charles equalized for Southampton in the 76th minute with a close-range shot following a misdirected header from Liverpool's Wataru Endo.

Despite making 11 changes from the previous match, Liverpool's substitute Hugo Ekitike secured the win by scoring in the 85th minute, preventing a penalty shootout.

Chelsea's Narrow Escape

Chelsea faced a potential upset against third-tier Lincoln, with manager Enzo Maresca making eight changes after their recent loss to Manchester United.

In their first encounter since 1911, Lincoln took the lead in the 42nd minute due to a mistake by Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez, whose pass was intercepted by Ivan Varfolomeev, leading to a goal by Rob Street.

After suffering two consecutive defeats, Chelsea found their rhythm when Tyrique George equalized just three minutes into the second half with a half-volley that hit the post.

Facundo Buonanotte then put Chelsea ahead in the 50th minute, skillfully navigating through the Lincoln defense to score.

Other Match Results

Burnley experienced a surprising 2-1 defeat against Cardiff, with manager Scott Parker facing criticism for altering his entire lineup from the previous match.

Wolves managed to lift their spirits with a 2-0 victory over Everton, while Brighton dominated Barnsley with a 6-0 win, highlighted by Diego Gomez's four goals.

Fulham also progressed with a narrow 1-0 win against Cambridge, thanks to Emile Smith Rowe's goal.