Liverpool delivered a commanding performance at Anfield, defeating West Ham 5-1 to secure their place in the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup and inch closer to another Wembley appearance. The Reds started strong, with Dominik Szoboszlai unleashing a terrific strike to open the scoring. Curtis Jones then extended their lead, deftly threading the ball into the net from a tight angle. Liverpool continued their dominance in the second half, as Cody Gakpo added a third goal. Although Jarrod Bowen managed to pull one back for West Ham, the outcome was never in doubt. Liverpool sealed their victory with goals from Mohamed Salah and another from Curtis Jones.

The match at Anfield was a night to forget for West Ham, as they struggled to contain Liverpool’s attacking prowess and conceded five goals. It was a woeful display from the Hammers, leaving them with a disappointing result and a lot to reflect upon.

Caoimhin Kelleher – 6.5: Kelleher didn’t have much to do in the game, with West Ham having their first shot on target in the 71st minute. He couldn’t do much about Bowen’s goal and looked commanding when coming out for crosses.

Joe Gomez – 6.5: This was Gomez’s 195th appearance for Liverpool, but he is still searching for his first goal for the club. He had a couple of chances in the game but couldn’t convert them. However, his attacking abilities have improved throughout the season.

Jarell Quansah – 8: It’s hard to believe that Quansah was playing in League One last season. He looked like a seasoned member of the Liverpool team, displaying composure on the ball and positional and tactical awareness. He made a great tackle on Bowen early on and his interception led to Liverpool’s first goal. He also broke the lines with some good passes.

Virgil Van Dijk – 6.5: Van Dijk’s passing from the back was on point, setting the tempo for Liverpool. He provided guidance to young Quansah throughout the game. However, there wasn’t much defensive action for Van Dijk as West Ham didn’t pose much of a threаt. He was substituted in the 60th minute.

Kostas Tsimikas – 7: Tsimikas made a crucial interception with a sliding challenge when West Ham had a rare аttаck. He provided width and energy in the attacking phase. He showcased good width and made an excellent interception when Bowen looked for Fornals at the back post.

Wataru Endo – 6.5: Endo had a couple of misplaced passes early on, but he grew into the game and did well in breаking up play defensively. His early substitution indicates that he might have an important role to play against Arsenal.

Dominik Szoboszlai – 8: Szoboszlai had a few loose touches initially, but this was his best performance in a month. His goal was the best among the five scored by Liverpool, and he could have added a couple more with some luck. He thrives when given the freedom to drift into wide areas.

Curtis Jones – 9: Jones narrowly edges out Elliott for the Man of the Match title due to his brace. He displayed maturity in a defensive sense throughout the season, but in this game, he showcased a different side of his game. He aggressively burst through the midfield, contributing to Liverpool’s attacking threаt.

Harvey Elliott – 8.5: Elliott provided a glimpse of what Liverpool’s right flank could look like when Salah is absent for the African Cup of Nations. He was a constant source of energy, taking on players, going to the byline, and cutting inside. He was unlucky not to score but his relentless running and creativity were evident throughout the game.

Cody Gakpo – 8: Gakpo’s substitution might suggest that he could earn a starting spot over Nunez against Arsenal. He led the line effectively, both in a traditional sense and by dropping deep. His goal was a well-taken finish, and his combination play was of high quality.

Darwin Nunez – 7 (BOOKED): Despite going 11 games without a goal, Nunez had a much-improved performance operating on the left wing. He was unfortunate not to score as Areоla made a fine save towards the end of the game. Nunez was a constant nuisance to the opposition.