Liverpool’s Carabao Cup clash with Tottenham was marred by a lengthy delay in the opening minutes of the match after Spurs midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur suffered a worrying injury. The incident occurred when Bentancur attempted to head the ball during a corner taken by teammate Pedro Porro. However, after hitting the ground inside Liverpool’s penalty area, Bentancur was unable to get back up, and there were no players around him when he fell.
Recognizing that his teammate was in distress, Porro quickly signaled for medical assistance and rushed to his side. The situation escalated as players from both teams gathered around and urgently called for medics. Bentancur received medical attention for nearly 10 minutes before being taken off the field on a stretcher. As he was carried off, fans from both clubs expressed their support with applause, showing their concern for the Uruguay international.
Sky Sports reporter Peter Smith mentioned that Tottenham’s manager, Ange Postecoglou, walked over to check on Bentancur, who was wearing an oxygen mask as he was escorted past the technical areas and toward the tunnel. Spurs’ official social media account posted a message of support, writing: “We’re all with you, Lolo.”
Bentancur was replaced by Welsh winger Brennan Johnson, and the midfielder’s injury seemed especially concerning, as he had only just returned from a seven-match suspension. Fans and commentators on social media voiced their concern, with one writing, “I hope Bentancur is alright. That looks seriously worrying,” and another adding, “Thoughts with the lad.”
Sky Sports anchor Mark Chapman later confirmed that Bentancur was still receiving treatment in the Spurs dressing room during halftime. Former player Jamie Redknapp, who played for both Liverpool and Tottenham, remarked that such delays impact the flow of the game. Meanwhile, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot was also forced to make a substitution after Jarell Quansah sustained an injury, with Wataru Endo replacing him.
