Liverpool’s ambitions of a historic quadruple came crashing down as Championship side Plymouth pulled off a sensational 1-0 victory in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday.
Manager Arne Slot’s decision to field a much-changed Liverpool side proved costly, with Ryan Hardie’s second-half penalty sealing an unforgettable upset at Home Park.
Several key players, including Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, Andrew Robertson, and Cody Gakpo, were rested as Slot made ten changes from the team that had dominated Tottenham 4-0 in the League Cup semi-final second leg just days earlier.
Despite an impressive start to his tenure at Anfield, the former Feyenoord boss endured a rare setback, with Liverpool suffering only their fourth defeat in all competitions this season.
This shock exit also marked just the third time that Slot’s side had failed to find the net.
Additionally, it was only the fourth occasion in FA Cup history that a Premier League leader had been knocked out by a lower-league team.
Liverpool must now recover swiftly from this humbling experience as they prepare for a crucial Merseyside derby against Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday.
A win in that fixture would strengthen their position at the top of the Premier League, potentially moving them nine points ahead of second-placed Arsenal.
Despite this setback, Liverpool’s season remains full of promise. They are through to the Champions League last 16 and have a League Cup final clash against Newcastle lined up for March.
For Plymouth manager Miron Muslic, this triumph represents a remarkable achievement.
Tasked with guiding the team away from the foot of the championship table, Muslic—who fled war-torn Bosnia as a child—has already made a significant impact since replacing Wayne Rooney in January.
Forced to leave his hometown of Bihać at the age of nine due to the Bosnian War, Muslic’s journey has been one of resilience and determination.
Plymouth had already demonstrated their giant-killing credentials by knocking out Brentford in the third round.
However, before last weekend’s win over West Brom, they had not won a league game since November. Given the circumstances, this victory over Liverpool will be remembered as one of the most dramatic upsets in FA Cup history.
Liverpool Falter in Dismal FA Cup Display
Liverpool’s already weakened team suffered an early blow when Joe Gomez was forced off injured. The visitors struggled to establish any rhythm as Plymouth defended resolutely and fought tirelessly to frustrate them.
Liverpool managed just one shot on target in the first half, a long-range effort from James McConnell in the 36th minute that Conor Hazard comfortably saved.
Slot’s increasingly frustrated demeanour on the touchline reflected his side’s lethargy, and matters worsened in the 54th minute when Darko Gyabi’s acrobatic effort struck Harvey Elliott’s raised arm.
The referee pointed to the spot without hesitation, and Hardie stepped up to send Caoimhin Kelleher the wrong way, sparking jubilant celebrations among the home fans.
Liverpool attempted a late comeback, but Conor Hazard produced superb saves to deny Diogo Jota and Darwin Núñez in stoppage time, securing a famous win for Plymouth.
Meanwhile, Wolves eased into the fifth round with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers. Two quickfire goals in the first half sealed the win, with João Gomes’ effort slipping past Balázs Tóth before Matheus Cunha added a stunning strike just 39 seconds later.
Elsewhere, Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou faces mounting pressure ahead of his side’s clash with Aston Villa in the final FA Cup match of the day. Having previously claimed he always wins a trophy in his second season, the Australian manager will be desperate to avoid another cup disappointment.
