On Wednesday at dawn, a rematch of the 3rd round of the FA Cup took place in England. Last year's champions Liverpool, who were not at full strength, relied on a stunning long-range shot from 19-year-old midfielder Javi Aliero to beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0 on the road, and tasted victory for the first time this season. Liverpool advance to the 4th round and will face the "Battle of the Rivals" with Brighton, a challenging road to defend their title.
Looking back at the last time these two sides faced each other, Liverpool drew 2-2 with Wolves at home and had to play a replay. Liverpool, who were the visitors and played with a substitutes' bench, showed a much better performance and broke the deadlock in just 13 minutes. Javi Alillo started the ball near the halfway line and drove to about 30 yards to score with a shot that the youngster had the courage to take.
Liverpool's newest signing, Gap, also had two great chances but was unfortunate to miss them. Another 20-year-old star, Fabio Cavallo, had a shot on goal, but it was ruled out for offside. Wolverhampton Wanderers' "big man" Adama Chayol also tried a long range shot but it went over the crossbar.
At the changeover, Wolves quickly adjusted their tactics and launched a fierce attack. A shot from Rubin Neves and a suspected handball by Reds midfielder Nabil Kida caused controversy, but the referee didn't award a penalty and Liverpool held on under pressure to win 1-0.
After advancing to the 4th round, Liverpool's opponent will be Bradenton. The two teams met in the Premier League not too long ago, with Liverpool losing 0-3, and it will not be easy for the Reds to break through for promotion again.
