Roberto De Zerbi Criticizes Tough Defeat as Tottenham Exit Carabao Cup Against Liverpool

De Zerbi Calls Tottenham's Loss at Anfield Unfair

Roberto De Zerbi, head coach of Tottenham Hotspur, expressed strong dissatisfaction after his team’s 3-1 defeat to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup third round at Anfield. Despite creating numerous chances, Spurs fell short against a clinical Liverpool side, leaving De Zerbi to question the fairness of the outcome.

Spurs’ Struggles Continue in the 2026-27 Season

The loss marked another setback for Tottenham during a challenging start to their campaign. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, and Dominik Szoboszlai sealed victory for Liverpool under manager Andoni Iraola. De Zerbi was visibly frustrated and insisted his team deserved more, highlighting missed opportunities in front of goal.

"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," De Zerbi said.

Statistics Reveal Spurs’ Inefficiency

Tottenham dominated in terms of chances, taking 17 shots compared to Liverpool’s fewer attempts, but only Connor Gallagher managed to score with a header. This finishing problem has plagued them all season; they remain without a Premier League goal so far.

De Zerbi attributed some blame to bad luck affecting the team across multiple matches. He referenced games against Newcastle, Everton, Nottingham Forest, and now Liverpool as examples where the scoreline did not reflect their performance.

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

Defensive Mistakes Cost Tottenham

Aside from scoring woes, defensive errors played a major role in the defeat. De Zerbi criticized the defensive shape, especially during transitions, which allowed Liverpool’s midfield and forwards to capitalize. He pointed out mistakes on the first and second goals that could have been avoided with better positioning and tighter marking.

"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 Ahead: Pressure to Bounce Back

With the Carabao Cup exit confirmed, all eyes turn to the Premier League, where Tottenham must address their glaring problems. The combination of poor finishing and defensive lapses has put the team under intense scrutiny. Still, De Zerbi remains convinced of his squad’s potential but emphasizes the need for mental strength to overcome this difficult patch.

"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)