Plymouth Argyle pulled off one of the biggest FA Cup upsets in recent history, defeating Premier League leaders Liverpool 1-0 on Sunday. Ryan Hardie’s second-half penalty secured the win, and despite relentless pressure, the Championship’s bottom side held firm against a star-studded Reds lineup.
Liverpool, missing key players like Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk, still fielded a formidable attack with Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz, and Federico Chiesa. However, they failed to break down Plymouth’s disciplined defense, even with Darwin Núñez coming off the bench.
While Plymouth’s victory was historic, manager Miron Muslic remained focused on the bigger picture—avoiding relegation from the Championship. Speaking after the match, he expressed pride but refused to get carried away:
“It’s an incredible moment, no doubt—the FA Cup, Liverpool, everything. But the biggest moment will be staying up. That’s my goal, what I have in my mind and soul.”
Muslic’s post-match celebration? A quiet night rewatching the game with nachos and a Fanta.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot acknowledged his team struggled against Plymouth’s direct approach, comparing it to their difficulties against Manchester United earlier in the season.
“Long balls, second balls—it’s a tough style to play against. We saw it with United as well; they sat deep and launched every ball forward. It’s difficult for any team.”
Plymouth now await their fifth-round opponent, having already eliminated Brentford and Liverpool. But the fight for Championship survival remains critical.
They sit rock bottom of the league with just 25 points from 30 games and a goal difference of -34. Their next challenge? A crucial league clash against Millwall on Wednesday.
One thing’s certain—after this stunning FA Cup run, Plymouth will fear no one.