Roberto De Zerbi Criticizes Unfair Defeat as Tottenham Exit Carabao Cup to Liverpool

De Zerbi Calls Tottenham’s Carabao Cup Loss at Anfield Unjust

Roberto De Zerbi, head coach of Tottenham Hotspur, voiced his frustration after his team’s 3-1 defeat to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup third round. Despite creating numerous chances, Spurs fell short against a clinical Liverpool side at Anfield, leaving De Zerbi lamenting a lack of fortune.

Match Summary and De Zerbi's Reaction

The 2026-27 season has been rough for Spurs, hitting a low point with their elimination from the Carabao Cup on Wednesday. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, and Dominik Szoboszlai ensured victory for Andoni Iraola’s Liverpool squad. De Zerbi was visibly annoyed on the sidelines, emphasizing that his team deserved a better outcome given their pressure during the game.

“We have to shoot more times and we have to shoot better,” De Zerbi told reporters. “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.”

Shots Without Reward

Statistics reveal Tottenham dominated possession and chances but lacked the precision to convert. Spurs took 17 shots, yet only one goal came from a Connor Gallagher header. This inability to find the net has been a recurring problem, with Tottenham still without a Premier League goal this season.

De Zerbi believes bad luck has been a factor in recent matches. He cited several games where he felt his team was unfairly treated by the scoreline, including matches against Newcastle, Everton, Nottingham, and now Liverpool.

“I think in these 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 Costly Against Liverpool

De Zerbi also criticized defensive errors that allowed Liverpool to seize control. The Reds capitalized on Tottenham’s lapses, especially during transitions where Liverpool’s midfield and attackers overpowered Spurs. The manager pointed out specific mistakes behind the goals conceded.

“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 said.

Looking Ahead to Recovery

With the Carabao Cup out of reach, De Zerbi faces mounting pressure to address Tottenham’s problems before their next Premier League match. The team’s struggles to finish chances and maintain defensive focus have put them under scrutiny from fans and analysts alike. The Italian coach remains confident in his squad’s quality but insists they need a stronger mindset to navigate this tough spell.

“It is a tough moment but we have to be stronger to prepare our best for the next game,” De Zerbi 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)