Chiesa nets his first goal as Liverpool secures a commanding 4-0 victory over Accrington in the The Emirates FA Cup. Discover the match highlights and key moments.
The Reds displayed clinical efficiency at a freezing Anfield.
Liverpool proved their superiority and class as they thumped Accrington Stanley 4-0 to qualify for Sunday’s fourth-round draw. Goals from Diogo Jota, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jayden Danns, and Federico Chiesa summed up a stunning performance on a very cold afternoon at Anfield. The depth and versatility of Jürgen Klopp’s squad were again well highlighted, with the big guns complemented by some of the youngsters on the big stage.
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Jota and Alexander-Arnold Lead Charge
From kick off, it was Liverpool and setting the rate while testing out the defensive skills of Accrington. There was a powerful cross from within ten minutes Kostas Tsimikas in which he looked to pinball Harvey Elliot; Darwin Nunez ever threat in that area tried one glancing over bar.

The Reds continued to pour on the pressure, and with a smart dummy by Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexander-Arnold had the ball in a clear position. His low drive was blocked by Accrington’s goalkeeper William Crellin. The visitors continued to hang on as Nunez wasted a second chance in a row with a 15-yard rebound fired over.

Accrington’s defense held out initially, but that resistance was soon broken when they conceded in the 30th minute when Liverpool took advantage of a visitors’ corner and launched a counter-attack. Alexander-Arnold delivered a fine goal down the right flank to Nunez, who promptly ran into the box, turned to square it to Jota, who pounced in to score the opener from close in.

Liverpool continued to pressure as Elliott forced another save from Crellin, and a long-range effort from Tyler Morton narrowly cleared the crossbar. Just before the break, Alexander-Arnold doubled the lead with a moment of brilliance. Positioned outside the box on the right, the Liverpool captain for the day unleashed a stunning strike that curled into the top corner, leaving Crellin rooted to his spot.

Substitutes Make the Difference
The second half started with Liverpool looking to extend their lead. Soon after the restart, Nunez was blocked inside the box by Crellin while Federico Chiesa, brought on for Szoboszlai at halftime, forced the follow-up wide of the side-netting.

Accrington did have their moments despite the overall dominance of Liverpool. A good short-corner routine by Accrington saw Josh Woods fire a shot that cannoned off the crossbar. Another chance fell to Donald Love, who was left unmarked but headed over from close range.

In the 74th minute, Liverpool’s third goal was scored. The substitutes made a huge difference. Young prospect James McConnell delivered a pinpoint pass over the top to Chiesa, whose initial shot was parried by Crellin. Jayden Danns, who had been lively since coming on, pounced on the rebound and slotted it home with composure to make it 3-0.

Chiesa’s Moment of Glory
Chiesa, who had been threatening throughout the second half, finally got his reward in the 90th minute. Picking up the ball outside the box, the Italian drove a low, powerful shot into the bottom corner, securing his first goal for Liverpool. The strike was met with rapturous applause from the Anfield crowd, as the summer signing celebrated his milestone moment in style.

This fourth goal served as the final seal on a totally professional display from Liverpool as they sealed their ticket to the next round with authority.
Leadership by Trent Alexander-Arnold
Captain Trent Alexander-Arnold had much to prove while wearing the captain’s armband, but the proof he presented was all too good as his pinpoint assist on the opening goal and that great second goal indicated maturity in attacking flair.
Impactful Substitutes
Jürgen Klopp’s substitutions were decisive. Chiesa, Danns, and McConnell all made significant contributions to the team’s victory, proving that there is a depth and quality within the ranks of Liverpool.
Darwin Nunez’s Tireless Work Rate
Although he didn’t score, Nunez was instrumental in creating opportunities for the team, such as the assist for Jota’s opener. His pace and movement kept Accrington’s defense under constant pressure.
Accrington’s Resilience
Despite the scoreline, Accrington had their moments, hitting the crossbar and creating chances that could have made the game more competitive. Their defensive organization in the early stages deserves recognition.
Liverpool’s Road Ahead
The victory ensures Liverpool’s place in Sunday’s fourth-round draw, where they will aim to continue their strong run in the competition. With key players delivering and emerging talents stepping up, Klopp’s side looks well-equipped to compete on multiple fronts.
The Anfield faithful hope this dominating display becomes springboard for success in the run of matches. For sure, with the competition getting fiercer now, a combination of veteran maturity and youthful exuberance may tip the balance in Liverpool’s favor.