Cody Gakpo and Darwin Nunez, substitutes for Liverpool, played pivotal roles in overturning the Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg match against Fulham at Anfield. The duo, brought on early in the second half with the team trailing 1-0 due to a 19th-minute goal by Willian following a Virgil van Dijk error, ensured a 2-1 lead for Liverpool heading into the return leg at Craven Cottage.
The absence of the injured Trent Alexander-Arnold had left Liverpool struggling for creativity, but manager Jurgen Klopp's strategic changes, reminiscent of their recent FA Cup match against Arsenal, made a significant impact.
Nunez injected a directness that had been lacking, while Gakpo provided composure and control in midfield, qualities not seen since the departure of Ryan Gravenberch, who was replaced by the Dutch midfielder.
Gakpo and Nunez collaborated effectively, resulting in Gakpo's goal in the 71st minute, just three minutes after Curtis Jones' equalizer, which had deflected off Adarabioyo. Liverpool now holds a 2-1 advantage going into the second leg at Craven Cottage on January 24.
Meanwhile, in the other semi-final, Chelsea suffered a surprising 1-0 loss to Middlesbrough. The full-time score of the Liverpool vs. Fulham match was 2-1 in favor of Liverpool.
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