Liverpool progressed to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with a 3-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield, but the result was shadowed by growing fan concern regarding midfielder Ryan Gravenberch. Despite manager Andoni Iraola steering his side through a demanding domestic fixture, sections of the Anfield crowd expressed frustration with the Dutch international’s display. Supporters voiced worries that Gravenberch is beginning to become a liability in central midfield, with many arguing his current form does not justify a regular spot in the starting eleven.

The match opened with early tension as Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham attempted to exploit Liverpool’s shaky start. Spurs created the night’s first major opening after 12 minutes when Conor Gallagher slipped Destiny Udogie down the left flank, leading to a low cross toward Lucas Bergvall. The midfielder hit a firm low strike from eight yards out, but Giorgi Mamardashvili reacted brilliantly to divert the effort with his toe. Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 21st minute against the run of play. An attempted tackle by Udogie inadvertently diverted the ball to Alexis Mac Allister, who found space inside the penalty