League Cup predictions: Can Liverpool crucify the Saints?

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Liverpool face Southampton in the semi-final of the League Cup on Wednesday, and HITC pundits give their predictions on the likely outcome.

Dan Coombs

Liverpool 2-0 Southampton

The first leg result was a shock for Liverpool, but the Reds have overcome more difficult deficits in two-legged ties over the years. Home advantage will play a big part, so expect a win, possibly with a late goal to thank, to set up an enthralling EFL Cup Final against Manchester United.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp

Danny Owen

Liverpool 1-1 Southampton

If Saints skipper Virgil Van Dijk is passed fit to start at Anfield, Claude Puel’s side have an excellent opportunity to cause a major upset in the EFL Cup semis. Liverpool, stuttering badly of late, could be vulnerable on the counter as they attempt to wrestle back their one goal deficit in the second leg.

Southampton manager Claude Puel

Alfie Potts-Harmer

Liverpool 3-1 Southampton

It promises to be an intriguing clash between Liverpool and Southampton at Anfield. Liverpool were torrid defensively against Swansea at the weekend, whilst Southampton were comfortable in their victory over Leicester. The Saints go into the game with a narrow lead to protect, but that could prove difficult with the departure of Jose Fonte followed by injury to Virgil van Dijk. Jurgen Klopp will want a response from his players, and Southampton could be unusually fragile at the back.

Vincent Ralph

Liverpool 1-1 Southampton

Liverpool really should be out of this tie after the first leg, but good defending and poor finishing means Southampton hold the slenderest of advantages. The Reds will go all out for a win but I think the Saints will hold firm and sneak through 2-1 on aggregate.

Che Thomas

Liverpool 2 – 0 Southampton

If Virgil van Dijk recovers in time to feature, the Saints may be able to hang on in the semi-final, but as it looks at the moment, Southampton may be desperately short in defence. Jurgen Klopp could pick a strong team to turn this tie around, and I’ll be surprised if there is not a response after the shock defeat to Swansea.

Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk celebrates

Aiden Cusick

Liverpool 1-1 Southampton

Liverpool don’t look right without Sadio Mane – ironically, ex of Southampton – and still can’t defend. The heat of Anfield could spur the Reds on to Wembley, but Saints can spoil the party by keeping things tight.