Two weeks ago, the Reds had to come from behind in the first leg to secure a 2-1 win at Anfield against Fulham, with goals from Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo. Now, as they prepare for the return leg on Wednesday, Liverpool is hoping to secure their place in the League Cup final for the second time in three seasons under Jurgen Klopp’s management.
Here are five things to know before the game:
1. Liverpool’s Andy Robertson has been declared fit to join the squad for the trip to London, but Dominik Szoboszlai and Trent Alexander-Arnold will not be available.
2. Cody Gakpo could make Liverpool history by becoming the first player to score in five successive matches in the competition.
3. Away goals do not apply in the League Cup semi-final, so the match could go into extra time or penalties if the aggregate score remains level after two hours.
4. Fulham is not to be underestimated, having knocked Tottenham out of the competition in the second round and won six of their 10 home games in the Premier League this season.
5. Liverpool has an impressive record on the road this season, with six wins from 11, a far cry from their away fortunes last season.
6. Liverpool aims for historic 10th League Cup win
Liverpool is on a mission to make history by becoming the first team to win the League Cup 10 times. Having secured their position as the most successful team in the competition by winning the trophy in the 2021/22 season, they are determined to add another win to their record. In the final that year, they faced off against Chelsea and emerged victorious after a penalty shootout, winning 11-10. Chelsea will need to overcome a 1-0 deficit against Middlesbrough to have a chance at a rematch with Liverpool.
7. Fulham seeks to break Craven Cottage curse
Fulham is hoping to reach their first-ever League Cup final, but they must win their upcoming match at Craven Cottage to have a chance. The team has not made it to the final in over 12 years, and they will need to break a drought of five matches without a win at their home stadium. In 2011, they defeated Liverpool 1-0 with a late goal from Clint Dempsey.
8. Liverpool eyes sixth consecutive win
Liverpool is currently on a winning streak, having won all their matches in 2024 so far and securing five consecutive victories in all competitions. A draw would be enough for them to reach the Wembley final, but a win would boost their confidence for future games.
9. Referee controversy in absence of VAR
Referee Simon Hooper, who was involved in the disallowing of Luis Diaz’s goal against Tottenham in November, will be officiating the upcoming match. However, there will be no VAR available due to Middlesbrough’s stadium not having the technology. Tony Harrington will be the fourth official, while Adrian Holmes and Simon Long will be the assistants.
10. Stay updated with TIA’s liveblog
For live updates and commentary on the match at Craven Cottage, visit TIA’s matchday liveblog. The coverage will begin at around 7.15pm (GMT) on their website.
