Championship bottom club Plymouth Argyle delivered a classic FA Cup shock, defeating Premier League leaders Liverpool 1-0 to advance to the fifth round.
The loss ended Liverpool’s hopes of securing a quadruple this season. Arne Slot, who made 10 changes from the side that thrashed Tottenham 4-0 in the Carabao Cup semi-final, paid the price as Plymouth capitalized on their opportunity.
Ryan Hardie scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot, punishing Slot’s decision to rest key players. It was only the Dutchman’s fourth defeat in 38 games as Liverpool manager.
Despite sitting at the bottom of the Championship, Plymouth have now knocked out two Premier League sides after also eliminating Brentford in the third round.
“We all came here today with a dream, and we have done it,” said Hardie.
Liverpool left out Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Cody Gakpo, but still fielded a strong attack featuring Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, and Federico Chiesa. However, the Reds’ fringe players failed to impress, leading to one of the FA Cup’s biggest upsets.
“We were not having a very good day. A result like this is the outcome,” said Slot. “It was a game of few chances, and the penalty was the decisive moment. Plymouth deserved it.”
Hardie calmly slotted home in the 53rd minute after Harvey Elliott handled Darko Gyabi’s flick. Plymouth nearly doubled their lead moments later, but Caoimhin Kelleher produced a fine save to deny Hardie.
Slot introduced Darwin Nunez to add firepower, but Plymouth’s defence held firm, with goalkeeper Connor Hazard making two stunning late saves. He denied Jota’s top-corner strike before tipping over Nunez’s header deep into stoppage time.
“I’m speechless, and normally they tell me I’m eloquent! It’s a big moment for us,” said Plymouth boss Miron Muslic, who replaced the sacked Wayne Rooney last month. “It’s a magical day. I told the lads to enjoy it.”
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