Liverpool cruised into the FA Cup fourth round with a convincing victory over Barnsley, but one moment stole the headlines: Dominik Szoboszlai’s bizarre backheel error in his own penalty area. The 25-year-old Hungarian midfielder’s lapse gifted the visitors a goal, sparking debate over whether it reflected disrespect toward lower-league opposition or simply a misjudgement in a comfortable match. Despite the blunder, Liverpool maintained control, extending their unbeaten run to 11 games and setting up a tie with Brighton.
The Moment That Sparked Controversy
Midway through the tie, Szoboszlai intercepted ahead of Adam Phillips but opted for a flashy backheel pass to goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili inside the box. The execution went awry, scuffing the ball straight to Phillips for a simple tap-in.
The goal briefly narrowed the scoreline, but Liverpool’s dominance ensured it remained an anecdote rather than a turning point. Szoboszlai later apologised internally, acknowledging the “easy mistake” that complicated matters momentarily.
Manager Arne Slot described the choice as “weird”: “I don’t think you should do that in any game—FA Cup, friendly, or training. I prefer to keep my opinion private and speak with Dom directly.”
Barnsley boss Conor Hourihane expressed stronger feelings: “I was disappointed… He doesn’t do that against Chelsea or Arsenal. It felt like a lack of respect.”
Divided Opinions on Intent
Pundits offered varied takes. Jobi McAnuff contextualised it as overconfidence when the game felt “too easy,” noting opponents enter a mindset for risks they avoid in tighter contests. Joleon Lescott agreed it appeared “disrespectful,” while Ally McCoist called the error “incredible.”
Others emphasised heat-of-the-moment decision-making. In a match Liverpool controlled, the backheel likely stemmed from comfort rather than deliberate slight. Szoboszlai’s overall display—capped by a stunning long-range goal—demonstrated commitment, not arrogance.
Statistical Milestones and Standout Performance
Beyond the mistake, Szoboszlai excelled. He became the first Premier League player this season to combine a goal, 100+ passes (105 completed), and 10+ possession wins (12) in one match.
Late substitutes Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike added flair, combining for a goal that sealed comfort. Wirtz’s 30-minute cameo included a goal and assist, earning Slot’s praise for creativity.
Match Key Moments
| Time/Moment | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| First Half | Szoboszlai spectacular goal | Established Liverpool dominance |
| Second Half | Backheel error leads to Barnsley goal | Brief reduction in lead |
| Late Substitutions | Wirtz and Ekitike combine | Restored control and added flair |
| Full Time | Comfortable Liverpool win | Advanced to fourth round vs Brighton |
Broader Context: Liverpool’s Momentum
The victory extended Liverpool’s unbeaten streak to 11 matches (six wins, five draws), their best since a 24-game run in late 2024 to early 2025. Slot’s squad rotation demonstrated depth, with new signings integrating effectively.
A second-half penalty appeal for Barnsley—when Reyes Cleary fell under Szoboszlai’s challenge—was waved away. Without VAR until the fifth round, the on-field call stood, drawing mixed views.
Szoboszlai reflected: “I’m sorry for the team… But football moves on, and we take the next round.”
The Debate: Respect in Football
The incident highlights ongoing discussions about professionalism against lower-tier sides. While Hourihane felt slighted, Slot and others framed it as a learning moment rather than malice.
In cup competitions famed for humility triumphs, such errors serve reminders: respect opponents regardless of status.
Liverpool march on, with Szoboszlai’s talent central to ambitions. This blip—quickly overshadowed by victory—offers growth opportunity for a key player in Slot’s evolving side.
As the FA Cup progresses, moments like these add colour to its tapestry. Liverpool fans will hope Szoboszlai’s positives outweigh the rare negatives moving forward.
