TNT Sports commentator Ally McCoist was left utterly bewildered by a moment of madness from Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai during the Reds' FA Cup third-round clash with Barnsley.
Anfield Drama Unfolds
The incident occurred on Monday night, January 12, 2026, at Anfield, where Liverpool were heavy favourites against their League One opponents. Szoboszlai had, ironically, been in sparkling form, firing Liverpool into an early lead with a spectacular long-range strike inside the first ten minutes.
Jeremy Frimpong doubled the advantage in the 36th minute, seemingly putting the Premier League side in complete control. However, the complexion of the tie changed dramatically just before half-time following a catastrophic error from the game's early hero.
'What on Earth is He Thinking?'
In a moment of inexplicable decision-making, Dominik Szoboszlai attempted an audacious backheel while in possession inside his own six-yard box. The trick went horribly wrong, presenting the ball directly to Barnsley midfielder Adam Phillips, who gratefully slotted home from close range to bring the visitors back into the contest.
On commentary duty for TNT Sports, legendary former striker Ally McCoist could scarcely believe what he was witnessing. "He does fantastically well matching the run," McCoist began, analysing the build-up. "Defensively, his duties were all but done as he got in front of the attacker. Does he stand on the ball? Try and backheel it? What on earth is he thinking about there?!"
McCoist's Stunned Reaction
McCoist's incredulity continued as he digested the bizarre sequence of play. "That's incredible, absolutely incredible," he exclaimed. "He scored a fantastic goal earlier but I don't think I've ever seen a player of that quality do something like that in an area where you should never even be thinking about it."
The pundit summarised the sheer contradiction of Szoboszlai's performance, stating, "I'm stunned at that. For 40 minutes he might have been the best player on the pitch then he does something like that! I can't believe what I've seen there."
The goal from Phillips ensured a nervier second half for Jurgen Klopp's side than anticipated, though Liverpool ultimately held on to secure their place in the FA Cup fourth round. The match will, however, be remembered for one of the most peculiar individual errors seen at Anfield in recent seasons.
