Arne Slot has blamed this Liverpool players for ‘causing him the draw against Tottenham Dominating the game.

Liverpool encountered a controversial defeat in the first leg of their League Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night, losing by a narrow margin in a match filled with disputed incidents.

Lucas Bergvall netted the decisive goal in the 86th minute, just after avoiding a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Kostas Tsimikas.

This loss, only the second under manager Arne Slot, leaves Liverpool with the task of overcoming a one-goal deficit in the second leg at Anfield next month.

Despite the result, individual performances were mixed. Virgil van Dijk, who received an 8, was a dominant figure in Liverpool’s makeshift defense, where he partnered with Quansah, Endo, and later Ibrahima Konaté.

His calmness and leadership were especially vital in the second half. Kostas Tsimikas, rated a 6, overcame an early mistake and contributed with dangerous set-pieces and crosses. Unfortunately, he was off the field receiving treatment for Bergvall’s foul when Tottenham took advantage and scored.

In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch earned a 6 for showing moments of brilliance with precise passing and interceptions, though his defensive work was inconsistent before improving after the break. Alexis Mac Allister, rated 7, was Liverpool’s most active and creative presence in midfield.

Despite missing a first-half header, he was vital throughout before being substituted late in the match. Curtis Jones, rated 5, started with strong tackles but faded considerably as the game went on, leaving minimal impact aside from a late penalty appeal during injury time.

In attack, Mohamed Salah struggled to find his form, earning a 6. He squandered a key chance and spent much of the match chasing long passes, though he showed some improvement in the second half.

Diogo Jota, rated 5, dropped deep to link up play but had limited involvement due to a lack of service and was eventually substituted.

Cody Gakpo, who scored a 7, created Salah’s first-half opportunity and worked hard down the left wing, creating several chances before being substituted.

Among the substitutes, Wataru Endo performed well, earning a 7. Filling in at center-back and later moving to midfield, he showcased excellent positioning. Darwin Núñez, also rated 7, added energy to Liverpool’s attack and forced three saves from Tottenham’s goalkeeper.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, rated 6, had a late shot cleared off the line and received a warm reception from Liverpool’s traveling supporters. Despite the loss, Liverpool will aim to bounce back in the crucial second leg at Anfield.