Player ratings as Liverpool narrowly defeat Fulham in Carabao Cup semi-final

In the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, Liverpool managed to secure a marginal aggregate advantage over Fulham, but it wasn't easy. Liverpool had to overcome an early surprise lead from Willian of Fulham, a result of the absence of star players Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who were out on international duty and through injury respectively.

Willian gave Fulham a surprising and well-earned lead in the early part of the match. However, the substitution of Darwin Nunez drastically changed the course of the game. Nunez helped Curtis Jones and later Cody Gakpo to turn the tables on the scoreline. Thanks to several last-minute this time though, Bernd Leno of Fulham made sure that Liverpool did not gain an insurmountable lead before the second leg.

The game started with Liverpool dominating the field, but they were unable to create significant chances. Curtis Jones made an attempt from outside the penalty area, but it was effortlessly saved by Bernd Leno. Diogo Jota also made a low effort, but he missed the target.

19 minutes into the game, Willian put Fulham ahead. Despite Liverpool's robust defence, Fulham gained confidence towards half-time. Ibrahima Konate was nearly caught out by Antonee Robinson and Caoimhin Kelleher had to step in to stop Pereira's driving shot.

Liverpool started the second half with a fierce offensive strategy, undeterred by the disadvantageous scoreline. However, within minutes, they had to tread back as Bobby Decordova-Reid nearly capitalized on a pass by Willian for Fulham, potentially increasing their lead.

Liverpool's appeals for a penalty were dismissed after Robinson appeared to handle the ball during a free-kick. However, things changed when Jota and Jones combined to score an equalizer.

Jota teamed up again with Gakpo to lead Liverpool to a victory with 20 minutes remaining. Nunez, however, was the spotlight of the match when he created a goal and was unlucky not to score a few more, but for Leno's outstanding goalkeeping.

Defeating Liverpool was a tough task for Fulham, who was the superior side for certain parts of the match. Liverpool's substitutes delivered, scoring crucial goals and providing decisive assists, helping the team secure a crucial lead heading into the second leg.

Despite Fulham's strong performance, Liverpool players like Diogo Jota and Curtis Jones, along with substitutes like Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo, had outstanding performances, securing Liverpool's victory.