Wirtz and Ekitiké Seal Liverpool's FA Cup Progress in 4-1 Victory

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND — Hugo Ekitiké's late tap-in punctuated a dominant Liverpool performance as the Reds secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Barnsley at Anfield, comfortably booking their place in the next round of the FA Cup.

The match erupted into life from the opening moments, with Liverpool's intent crystal clear. Just nine minutes in, Dominik Szoboszlai unleashed a spectacular right-footed thunderbolt from outside the box, the ball arrowing into the top left corner with surgical precision. Assisted by the ever-reliable Alexis Mac Allister, the Hungarian midfielder's stunning strike electrified Anfield and established the evening's commanding tempo.

Liverpool's attacking prowess continued to shine as they methodically carved through Barnsley's defensive lines. Jeremie Frimpong doubled the advantage in the 36th minute, his left-footed effort from the right side of the box finding the high centre of the goal after another inch-perfect assist from Mac Allister. The Argentine playmaker was a maestro in midfield, dictating the rhythm with his exceptional vision and expansive passing range.

Barnsley, however, refused to surrender meekly. The Yorkshire side's fighting spirit emerged when Adam Phillips struck back just four minutes before halftime, converting from close range to the bottom left corner. The goal injected fresh belief into the visitors, providing a compelling reminder that cup competitions can produce unexpected drama when underdogs refuse to be intimidated.

The second half saw Liverpool reassert their tactical superiority through sustained pressure and superior technical quality. Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa caused constant problems down the flanks, while Curtis Jones orchestrated play from deeper midfield positions. Barnsley goalkeeper Murphy Cooper stood resolute, producing several crucial saves that prevented an even more comprehensive defeat. His fine stops to deny Gakpo in the 58th minute and thwart Virgil van Dijk moments later demonstrated remarkable reflexes under intense pressure.

Liverpool's tactical flexibility became most evident through their strategic substitutions. The introduction of Hugo Ekitiké and Florian Wirtz in the 60th minute proved to be the masterstroke that ultimately decided the contest. Their fresh legs and dynamic movement patterns systematically disrupted Barnsley's defensive organization, creating the critical spaces needed for decisive moments.

Wirtz announced his arrival with authority in the 84th minute, his right-footed shot from the centre of the box nestling clinically in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Ekitiké, the German's clinical finish underscored the remarkable depth of quality in Liverpool's squad and their ability to transform games from the bench.

The partnership between the two substitutes reached its dramatic crescendo in the fourth minute of stoppage time. Ekitiké, who had been instrumental in creating Wirtz's goal, became the finisher himself with a simple left-footed tap-in from very close range. Wirtz returned the favor with the assist, completing a sublime example of combination play that left Barnsley's defense utterly helpless.

Throughout the encounter, Liverpool's statistical dominance told the story of their comprehensive control. They consistently peppered Cooper's goal with attempts, forcing the Barnsley keeper into several acrobatic saves that kept the scoreline marginally respectable. The Reds' intelligent movement off the ball and rapid passing exchanges continuously generated space in the final third.

Barnsley demonstrated admirable spirit, with Davis Keillor-Dunn forcing a save from Giorgi Mamardashvili in the 30th minute and creating several promising half-chances. Their direct approach and willingness to press high occasionally disrupted Liverpool's build-up play, offering glimpses of potential that ultimately lacked the sustained quality needed to seriously challenge the Premier League giants.

The atmosphere at Anfield remained supportive and appreciative throughout, with the home crowd recognizing both their team's exceptional quality and Barnsley's determined effort. The FA Cup's enduring magic was evident in the mutual respect shown between the sides, despite the clear disparity in class and resources.

Looking ahead, Liverpool will play Burnley on January 17 and will travel to France to play Olympique Marseille on January 21 in Champions League game. Barnsley will return to league action, continuing their campaign in the lower divisions with pride and determination intact.