Liverpool’s Carabao Cup journey came to a disappointing end following a 3–0 loss to Crystal Palace — a match defined by defensive disorganization, missed chances, and a red card that summed up a frustrating night for Arne Slot’s side. With a heavily rotated lineup featuring debutants and fringe players, the Reds never truly found their rhythm, leaving fans disheartened by both the performance and the result.
Below are the detailed player ratings from the game:
Freddie Woodman – 6/10
Making his debut in goal, Woodman endured a difficult introduction to life at Liverpool. Although he conceded three times, he was largely blameless for the goals, having been left exposed by his defenders on multiple occasions.
Calvin Ramsay – 5/10
The Scottish full-back made only his third appearance since joining from Aberdeen but struggled to handle Palace’s pace and intensity. Looked uncomfortable in possession and was often caught out of position.
Wataru Endo – 5/10
Deployed as part of an experimental back five, Endo showed some defensive awareness early on but faded as the game progressed. Couldn’t prevent Palace from breaking through and continues to find regular minutes hard to come by this season.
Joe Gomez – 4/10
An experienced figure in an otherwise young lineup, Gomez failed to take command. His slow reaction before Palace’s opening goal set the tone for a shaky defensive display.
Andy Robertson – 6/10
Captain for the night, Robertson tried to rally his teammates and offered some leadership at the back. However, he couldn’t control the defensive chaos around him.
Milos Kerkez – 4/10
Tasked with playing as a left wing-back, Kerkez looked nervous and unsettled. His decision-making on the ball was poor, and he struggled to adapt to the system’s demands.
Kieran Morrison – 5/10
The young debutant displayed energy and enthusiasm, pressing high and trying to inject urgency, but saw little of the ball as Palace dominated possession.
Trey Nyoni – 5/10
Another young player thrown into a tough midfield battle. Showed flashes of composure but was often overrun by Palace’s physicality and experience.
Alexis Mac Allister – 4/10
The World Cup winner was anonymous for large parts of the game. Failed to link midfield and attack effectively, and his lack of influence was glaring.
Rio Ngumoh – 6/10
One of the brighter performers on a bleak night. Showed confidence on the ball, created a few chances, and nearly scored with a fine effort in the first half.
Federico Chiesa – 6/10
Arguably Liverpool’s most dangerous attacker. Worked hard, showed flashes of creativity, and had one clear chance that he unfortunately sent over the bar.
Substitutes:
Wellity Lucky – 5/10
Kaide Gordon – 5/10
Amara Nallo – 3/10
Final Verdict:
Liverpool’s experimental lineup failed to deliver, and Slot’s tactical gamble backfired. Palace took full advantage of the Reds’ defensive instability, and questions are now being raised about squad depth and morale. The defeat leaves Liverpool with just one win in their last seven matches — a worrying trend that the manager must address urgently if the team is to get back on track.
