Liverpool cruise past West Ham with a 5-1 win, secure League Cup semifinal spot

Liverpool soared to the League Cup semifinals by thrashing West Ham 5-1 in a dominating performance at Anfield on Wednesday. After a weekend Premier League stalemate, Jurgen Klopp's squad bounced back with an explosive display against their rivals.

Liverpool's relentless attack saw Curtis Jones netting twice, supported by goals from Dominik Szoboszlai, Cody Gakpo, and Mohamed Salah. With the triumph, Liverpool advance to the League Cup's final four, joining the ranks of Chelsea, Fulham, and Middlesbrough.

Known for their League Cup capabilities, Liverpool, who claimed the trophy for the ninth time in the 2021/22 season, showed no mercy from the get-go. The home side unleashed a barrage of assaults, leaving West Ham struggling to retaliate.

Szoboszlai struck first for Liverpool, capitalising on a midfield error from Benrahma to slot a powerful shot into the far corner. Despite occasional glimpses from West Ham, the visitors found themselves unable to match Liverpool's intensity, reminiscent of their limited success at Anfield over the years.

Liverpool's dominance continued as Gakpo narrowly missed a chance, and the first half concluded with an 11-shot lead for Liverpool against West Ham's zero attempts.

The second half mirrored the initial onslaught, with Liverpool dictating play and Moyes' team unable to muster a response. Despite a brief moment of hope with Bowen's goal for West Ham, Liverpool swiftly regained control, widening the gap with Salah and Jones finding the net once more.

Klopp's strategic substitutions, including Salah, Alexander-Arnold, and Konate, reinforced Liverpool's superiority. The relentless attacking force secured their spot in the semifinals, leaving West Ham with little chance to recover.

Liverpool's emphatic victory not only propels them into the next round of the League Cup but also sends a powerful statement of intent to their competitors. With their eyes set on silverware, Klopp's squad showcased their prowess, demonstrating why they remain a formidable force in the tournament.