Slot says Liverpool must defend their Carabao Cup crown after securing a place in the semi-finals

Arne Slot insists Liverpool must defend their Carabao Cup crown after securing a place in the last four with a 2-1 win over Southampton at St Mary’s.

Despite a much-changed squad, Slott’s side emerged victorious thanks to first-half goals from Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott on a rainy evening on the south coast.

Cameron Archer halved the deficit on the hour mark as Southampton, under interim boss Simon Rusk following the sacking of Russell Martin on Sunday, produced a spirited second half.

But the holders and current Premier League leaders have improved, with Slot emphasizing the importance of retaining the trophy after the game.

“We have to defend the trophy because the club won it last season,” Slot told Sky Sports.

“I wasn’t involved, but the players were and Jurgen (Klopp) and his staff were, of course.

“We want to compete in every cup, so we are happy to have reached the semi-finals. It’s always tough competition, but this time it’s for sure.”

“We have to defend the trophy” 🏆

Arne Slot shares his thoughts as Liverpool progress to the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup 💭 pic.twitter.com/1GMEHTeL0X

— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) December 18, 2024

Slot, who was banned from playing on the touchline after receiving his third yellow card of the season in the 2-2 draw with Fulham, watched the game from the high stands.

And the Liverpool boss was largely satisfied with his side’s performance, but admitted their standards have dipped at times.

“The first half was really good,” Slott said. “Good game, we played very well.

“But it wasn’t a complete surprise that we conceded a goal because I think we started to get a bit sloppy before that. We lost one or two easy balls.”

The Reds return to league action on Sunday when they travel to Tottenham, who play Manchester United in the last Carabao Cup quarter-final on Thursday night.