Liverpool edge Chelsea on penalties as Iraola praises team spirit

Andoni Iraola says Liverpool’s growing unity with their supporters was crucial as they overcame Chelsea on penalties to reach the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.

The tie at Anfield ended 1-1 after Morgan Rogers and Cody Gakpo both scored penalties before half-time, with Liverpool eventually winning the shootout 6-5.

Liverpool will now host Iraola’s former club Bournemouth in the last eight. The Liverpool coach was pleased his players’ efforts had been rewarded with progress in the competition.

“In cup competitions, what matters is that you are in the next round and in the draw,” Iraola said. “The players have made a very big effort today and at least we get the reward of being in the quarter-finals.”

Iraola admitted Bournemouth were the one side he had hoped to avoid when the draw was made, partly because of his previous connection with the club and partly because of their recent form.

“Honestly, before the draw, I said the only team I didn’t want was Bournemouth,” he said. “For me, it’s special. They know me very well and they are playing very well lately.”

Liverpool have already had to overcome Tottenham and Chelsea in this season’s competition. Despite what Iraola described as an unfavourable run of draws, he is determined to take advantage of another home tie.

“We haven’t been very lucky with the draws, but we have to earn the right to be in the semi-finals,” he said. “I hope we can do it here at home again.”

The manager also welcomed the stronger connection between the team and the supporters, particularly after Liverpool found themselves behind during the match.

“I feel it and I’m very happy to feel it because I think it’s very important,” Iraola said. “The players are feeling the support of the ones in the stands. When we are all together, we create better atmospheres.”

He said the fans continued to encourage the players through the more difficult periods and noted that Liverpool had now recorded three successive positive results in home matches.

Iraola also defended his decision to make seven changes to the starting line-up, saying rotation was required because of the demands of a busy schedule.

The late introductions of Alexis Mac Allister and Alexander Isak also ensured Liverpool had experienced players available if the contest went to penalties.

Young midfielder Trey Nyoni was singled out for praise after coping with the pressure of a knockout match against a strong opponent.

“He has done very well. Really well,” Iraola said. “It’s good for the young players to live these experiences in cup competitions, where if you lose, you are out.”

Liverpool’s next match is a Premier League meeting with Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday, when they will try to continue their positive home form.