Liverpool suffered a stunning FA Cup shock at Home Park as Plymouth Argyle stunned the Reds.
Arne Slot opted for a radically changed lineup, and his decisions have raised eyebrows. Consequently, the match quickly turned into a masterclass of ruthless management and tactical reshuffling.
Initially, Slot switched up his starting XI in a bid to keep Liverpool’s quadruple hopes alive. Moreover, he gave several squad players valuable minutes, and the team’s heavy rotation was evident from the outset. However, the gamble did not pay off as the unexpected unfolded.
Early in the game, Joe Gomez bolstered the backline but then suffered an injury. After only 11 minutes on the pitch, Gomez had to leave, prompting Slot to bring on Isaac Mabaya. The 20-year-old replaced James McConnell at right-back, and this early switch forced a tactical reshuffle.
Mabaya, a Liverpool academy product who has been with the club since he was six, made his debut under high pressure. Initially breaking through as a midfielder, he has now shifted to a right-back role. Unfortunately, his debut proved short-lived, and he experienced a humbling moment on the big stage.
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When Plymouth took a shock lead, Slot made a ruthless decision. At the 47th minute, he substituted Mabaya—barely allowing the debutant time to settle—and introduced Darwin Nunez instead. This move underscored Slot’s willingness to make difficult choices when the game turned against him.
Ryan Hardie then stepped up and scored from the penalty spot by sending Caoimhin Kelleher the wrong way. Consequently, the home fans erupted in celebration, even as Liverpool’s forward line struggled. Although Nunez joined Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz, and Federico Chiesa in attack, the team could not find the equalizer that might have forced extra time.
In addition, Slot included several young players in the lineup, such as James McConnell and Trey Nyoni, to inject fresh energy into the squad. Furthermore, the inclusion of Isaac Mabaya added to the inexperience on display, as he had not yet fully settled into his new role alongside established options like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Bradley.
Despite the FA Cup setback, Liverpool remain strong contenders elsewhere. They currently lead the Premier League by six points over Arsenal, even after playing one game fewer. Additionally, the Reds showcased their quality by hammering Tottenham at Anfield to book a place in the Carabao Cup final, and they have secured a Champions League spot by topping their group. Ultimately, though, the FA Cup dream now lies shattered after this shocking defeat.
