Liverpool advanced to the FA Cup fourth round with a commanding 4-0 victory over League Two side Accrington Stanley at Anfield on Saturday afternoon.
Accrington entered the match as heavy underdogs, hoping for a monumental upset.
Their defensive setup frustrated Liverpool early on, with the home side managing only a few chances.
Darwin Nunez had a notable opportunity, lofting a shot over the bar after a sharp drive from Trent Alexander-Arnold, but Accrington held their ground during the opening exchanges.
The breakthrough came just before the 30-minute mark. Liverpool capitalized on a quick counter-attack following an Accrington free kick.
Darwin Nunez’s precise low cross found Diogo Jota, who slotted in from close range to put the hosts ahead.
Liverpool continued to dominate, and their second goal came just before half-time. After forcing Accrington goalkeeper William Crellin into action earlier, Alexander-Arnold produced a spectacular strike from 20 yards, rifling the ball into the top corner.
It was a powerful statement from the right-back, who had faced scrutiny during the week.
Accrington adopted a more aggressive approach after the break, pushing players forward in an attempt to close the gap.
Their boldness nearly paid off in the 56th minute when Josh Woods rattled the crossbar following a well-executed corner routine.
The visitors came close again, this time from another corner.
Former Manchester United defender Donald Love, who had previously scored an own goal at Anfield in the FA Cup with Shrewsbury in 2020, missed a golden opportunity, heading over the bar from six yards with the goal at his mercy.
Just as Accrington began to gain momentum, Liverpool extended their lead. Jayden Danns, an 18-year-old with two FA Cup goals to his name, came off the bench in the 72nd minute and wasted no time making an impact.
Four minutes later, he pounced on a rebound after Federico Chiesa’s chipped effort was parried by Crellin, adding Liverpool’s third goal.
Federico Chiesa, introduced as a substitute, rounded off the scoring late in the game. The Italian, who had struck the post moments earlier, found the net with a precise low drive from outside the box, marking his first goal for the club.
Despite their determined performance, Accrington failed to secure a consolation goal.
Liverpool maintained their clean sheet and secured their first win of the year, advancing comfortably to the next round of the FA Cup.
