Roberto De Zerbi Criticizes Result as Tottenham Exit Carabao Cup After Liverpool Loss

Roberto De Zerbi, Tottenham Hotspur's head coach, voiced his frustration after his team fell 3-1 to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup third round at Anfield. Despite creating numerous opportunities, Spurs failed to convert them into goals, leading De Zerbi to describe the outcome as unjust.

Match Overview

The defeat marked another setback for Tottenham in the 2026-27 season, with Liverpool securing victory through goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, and Dominik Szoboszlai. De Zerbi appeared visibly upset on the sidelines, feeling that his side's effort deserved a better reward.

"We have to shoot more times and we have to shoot better. We have to finish better the clear situations. But we are sorry for the result, disappointed, frustrated for the result. I think it is unfair but we have to accept it and be stronger than this unlucky moment because I am honest. Honest with myself and with you."

Struggles in Front of Goal Persist

Tottenham fired 17 shots at Liverpool’s goal but managed only one headed attempt by Connor Gallagher. This inability to find the net has been a persistent problem, as the team has yet to score in the Premier League this season. De Zerbi believes bad luck has affected their results across several matches recently.

"In this five or six games we have been, for sure, not lucky, Newcastle, with Everton, even with Nottingham and tonight as well," he said.

Defensive Errors Costly Against Liverpool

Aside from attacking woes, Tottenham's defensive mistakes allowed Liverpool to capitalize effectively. De Zerbi pinpointed errors in positioning and marking that led to conceding goals, especially during transitions when Liverpool’s midfield and attack overwhelmed Spurs.

"We have to improve a lot of things because the first goal we conceded, we didn’t defend in the right way and the second goal we could be closer with Gakpo," De Zerbi remarked.

Looking Forward

With the Carabao Cup campaign ended, Tottenham must address both finishing and defensive issues before returning to Premier League action. De Zerbi remains confident in the quality of his squad but stresses the need for mental toughness to move past this difficult phase.

"It is a tough moment but we have to be stronger to prepare our best for the next game," he stated.

Upcoming Fixtures

• 19 Sept 2026, 14:30: Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa (Premier League)
• 20 Sept 2026, 16:00: AFC Bournemouth vs Liverpool (Premier League)