Watch Southampton vs Liverpool Live Stream, H2H, Lineups, Scores

On December 18, 2024, Southampton vs Liverpool in an exhilarating Carabao Cup quarter-final at St. Mary's Stadium. With the match set to kick off at 8 PM GMT, this fixture promises an action-packed contest featuring two teams with contrasting seasons. Southampton, fighting against relegation in the Premier League, will look to defy expectations, while Liverpool, under the leadership of manager Arne Slot, heads into this clash as the clear favorites.

Liverpool's Form Under Arne Slot

Liverpool has been on a tear this season under the management of Arne Slot, who has instilled a fresh tactical approach. Known for his strategic innovation and disciplined, high-pressing game, Slot has transformed Liverpool into one of the most dominant teams in both the Premier League and European competitions. With key players like Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Virgil van Dijk in excellent form, Liverpool has proven to be nearly unstoppable this season. Their high pressing and clinical finishing have made them formidable opponents in every competition they enter.

However, the Carabao Cup offers a unique challenge, with the Reds looking to defend their title and make it through to the semi-finals. For Liverpool, winning this competition could be an essential step towards completing a season that could see them chasing multiple trophies​.

Southampton's Challenge

For Southampton, the Carabao Cup has been a welcome distraction from their struggles in the Premier League. Currently fighting relegation, the Saints have struggled for form in domestic competitions but have shown heart in cup fixtures. Reaching the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup is a significant achievement for a team facing an uphill battle in the league. Under the guidance of Russell Martin, Southampton has focused on a possession-based style of play, with an emphasis on controlling the ball and building attacks from the back.

While the Saints will have the advantage of playing at home, they will face an uphill task against a Liverpool team brimming with talent and confidence. Southampton will rely on key players like Adam Armstrong and James Ward-Prowse to provide the necessary spark in attack and offer a solid defensive foundation to fend off Liverpool's offensive threats​.

Key Players to Watch

Liverpool's attacking players are always a threat, but it's the performances of midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch that have been pivotal in their success this season. Their ability to control the tempo of the game and supply the forwards with precision passes has been a key factor in Liverpool's dominance. 

Southampton, meanwhile, will look to the creative spark of Adam Armstrong and the leadership of captain James Ward-Prowse, who can deliver key set pieces and dictate play from the middle of the park​.

What's at Stake?

This quarter-final is about more than just the Carabao Cup trophy. For Liverpool, advancing to the semi-finals is crucial to their quest for silverware this season. The Reds are looking to maintain momentum and add to their growing collection of trophies under Slot. For Southampton, a win would not only give them a shot at silverware but could provide a much-needed morale boost as they face a difficult Premier League survival battle​.

Southampton vs Liverpool is set to be a captivating Carabao Cup encounter. With Southampton hoping to spring an upset and Liverpool aiming to maintain their cup-winning form, this match will showcase the best of English football. The clash of tactics, the battle for progression, and the desire for glory make this a fixture not to be missed!