Liverpool secured a dramatic and chaotic victory in the Carabao Cup third round, overcoming Southampton in a match that epitomized the unpredictable nature of manager Arne Slot’s early tenure. The encounter was dubbed by some as the 'Liverpool late, late show' or even 'Arne Slot’s Mad, Mad, Mad World', reflecting the team's pattern of throwing away leads only to snatch winners at the death.

A significant moment arrived when Alexander Isak, the £130 million British record signing from Newcastle United, opened his goal-scoring account for his new club. The goal came from a calamitous error by Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, who misplayed a pass from the back, allowing Federico Chiesa to pounce and set up Isak for a simple finish from a dozen yards out. This debut goal was a dream come true for Isak, though he will undoubtedly aim for more spectacular strikes in the future.

Despite taking the lead, Liverpool, for the third time this campaign, squandered a two-goal advantage, allowing Southampton to claw their way back. The Saints, under new manager Will Still, managed to equalize in the 76th minute through Shea Charles, pushing the Premier League champions close to another embarrassing result. Southampton had earlier chances, with Adam Armstrong hitting the bar and Leo Scienza missing a clear header from the rebound, moments that proved costly.

The decisive strike came from Hugo Ekitike, who replaced Isak at halftime. The £69 million front man tapped home a crucial late winner, sending Anfield into relief and celebration. However, Ekitike's joy was short-lived and controversial; in a bizarre turn of events, he pulled off his shirt while celebrating, earning himself a second yellow card and an immediate dismissal. This meant he would be suspended for the upcoming Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.

Manager Arne Slot did not hide his displeasure, describing Ekitike's celebration as "stupid and needless." He expressed surprise at the action, stating, "If I scored a goal like he did, I would have turned around and pointed at Federico Chiesa for the assist. Maybe I’m old school. It was stupid, not smart. He’s suspended for Saturday — and that’s not ideal." Ekitike later issued an apology on Instagram, admitting that "emotion got the better of me."

Beyond the goals and disciplinary drama, the match also served as the full debut for 17-year-old whizzkid Rio Ngumoha, signed from Chelsea, a move that sparked considerable "Blues’s fury." Playing wide on the left, Ngumoha's every touch generated excitement among the Anfield faithful, showcasing the club's blend of established stars and promising youth. Goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, on debut covering for Alisson, also made a brilliant save to deny Armstrong, underscoring the many changes Slot made to his side.

In other Carabao Cup third-round action, Chelsea also progressed after coming from behind to beat Lincoln City. Two quickfire goals after halftime from Tyrique George and Facundo Buonanotte secured their passage, highlighting a round filled with comebacks and late drama.