Previewing the League Cup Semi-Finals Against Fulham

Jurgen Klopp’s squad will get little rest after a dominating victory over Arsenal in the FA Cup on Sunday. The Reds host Fulham in the League Cup on Wednesday and will have to contend with fatigue and recent injury problems, including Trent Alexander-Arnold’s knee injury.

However, Liverpool fans can rest well knowing that their squad has arguably the most impressive club history in the League Cup. The Reds hold the record for the most finals appearances with 13, and they also hold the record for the most titles with 9. 

Liverpool has been particularly dominant against Fulham in this competition, accumulating a stellar record of 7-2-0 against the Cottagers. Moreover, the Reds’ 10-0 victory against Fulham in 1986 tied them with West Ham for the largest margin of victory ever in the EFL Cup.

But Jurgen Klopp will certainly be aware of Fulham’s success that has earned them a spot in this semi-final. The Cottagers knocked off Tottenham in the First Round, and they most recently defeated Everton on penalties in the Quarter-Finals, which all Liverpool fans will appreciate.

The Reds’ appreciation will only go so far though, and they will bring their very best against Fulham to try to secure a spot in the League Cup Finals.

The Reds' last League Cup victory came in 2022 in perhaps the wildest 0-0 game ever. Liverpool faced off against Chelsea, and after several goals were disallowed by fouls and offsides, the Reds and the Blues battled in an epic penalty shootout that ended 11-10 in the Reds’ favor.

The Reds could potentially see the return of their captain, Virgil Van Dijk, on Wednesday, which would surely boost morale and ensure that the squad does not look ahead to the finals without first taking care of business against Fulham.

The first leg of the semi-final will take place on Wednesday at Anfield, and the second leg will follow two weeks later on 24 January at West London’s Craven Cottage stadium.