Plymouth Argyle vs Liverpool – Stunning FA Cup Giant-Killing

Plymouth Argyle, bottom of the Championship, produced one of the biggest shocks in recent FA Cup history by defeating Premier League leaders Liverpool 1-0 at Home Park on 9 February 2025. Ryan Hardie’s second-half penalty was enough to send the home crowd into ecstasy and end Liverpool’s FA Cup journey in the fourth round.

The result dominated headlines as a classic giant-killing, with Liverpool unable to break down a resolute Plymouth defence despite enjoying the majority of possession. Goalkeeper Conor Hazard was outstanding, making several crucial saves to preserve the lead.

For Liverpool, the defeat represents an early exit from a competition they had hoped to win. For Plymouth, it is a moment that will be remembered for years, echoing the romance of the FA Cup. Read more FA Cup stories.

What Happened in Plymouth Argyle vs Liverpool FA Cup 2025?

• Plymouth Argyle, bottom of the Championship, defeated Premier League leaders Liverpool 1-0

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• Ryan Hardie’s second-half penalty separated the sides after a controversial VAR check for handball

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• Liverpool made several changes to their starting XI, which may have contributed to the upset

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• This is only the second FA Cup meeting between the clubs; the first in 2017 ended 0-0 before Liverpool won the replay

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• Conor Hazard’s performance was pivotal, with key saves in both halves

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• Liverpool’s best chance came when Mohamed Salah hit the post late in the match

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Final Score and Match Summary

The match was goalless at half‑time, with Liverpool controlling possession but creating little. Plymouth defended in a disciplined low block, frustrating the visitors. The decisive moment came in the 53rd minute when a Harvey Elliott handball in the box was penalised after a VAR check. Ryan Hardie stepped up and slotted the penalty low to the goalkeeper’s right.

Liverpool pushed hard for an equaliser in the final half‑hour. Mohamed Salah struck the post, and Conor Hazard made a stunning save from a late header. Plymouth held on for a famous victory.

Key Moments: The Penalty and Giant-Killing

The penalty award was the match’s pivotal moment. Referee Samuel Barrott initially did not give it, but after reviewing the monitor he decided that Harvey Elliott’s arm was in an unnatural position. The decision divided opinion, but it stood, and Hardie made no mistake

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Plymouth’s defensive discipline after the goal was remarkable. They restricted Liverpool to long‑range efforts and crosses, with the back three of Talovierov, Pleguezuelo, and Katic outstanding. The victory was widely described as an “enormous shock” and “one of the greatest shocks in the competition’s history”, according to BBC Sport and ESPN.

Who Played? Lineups and Stats for Plymouth vs Liverpool

Historical Note

The only previous FA Cup meeting between these clubs was in 2017. That third‑round tie at Anfield ended 0‑0, and Liverpool won the replay 1‑0 at Home Park. The 2025 result is Plymouth’s first ever FA Cup victory over Liverpool.

Confirmed Lineups for the FA Cup Fourth Round

Plymouth Argyle (from official match data): Conor Hazard (GK); Maksym Talovierov, Julio Pleguezuelo, Kornel Katic; Brendan Galloway, Tymoteusz Puchacz, Darko Gyabi, Adam Randell, Caleb Sorinola; Callum Wright, Ryan Hardie, Mustapha Bundu. Liverpool’s starting XI was a rotated side, but full details are available on the official Plymouth Argyle FC match page.

Head-to-Head Record: Liverpool vs Plymouth Argyle

According to Transfermarkt and 11v11, the clubs have met only a handful of times across all competitions. Liverpool held the advantage before this match, with three wins, two draws, and one loss (now two losses after the 2025 result).

Match Statistics Breakdown

Detailed statistics from the match show Liverpool dominated possession (65%) and had more shots on target (6 vs 3), but Plymouth’s defensive organisation and Hazard’s saves were decisive. Corners were 8-4 in Liverpool’s favour. The data is available via ESPN match coverage.

Where to Watch Plymouth Argyle vs Liverpool Highlights

Official FA Cup Highlights and Replays

Highlights of the match are available through official broadcasters. BBC Sport carried a live report and later published extended highlights. Sky Sports also showed match highlights on their football channel and online platform. A YouTube summary from the official FA Cup channel is available, but viewers should confirm availability in their region.

Match Replay Availability

Full match replays may be available on subscription services such as ESPN+ in the United States or via the FA Cup’s official streaming partner. Check local listings for accessibility.

Historical Context: How Does This Compare to 2017?

Plymouth vs Liverpool FA Cup 2017 Result

In the 2016‑17 FA Cup third round, Liverpool and Plymouth met for the first time. The initial match at Anfield ended 0‑0, with Plymouth earning a replay at Home Park. Liverpool won that replay 1‑0, with a goal from Lucas Leiva. The 2025 result therefore represents Plymouth’s first competitive victory over Liverpool.

Plymouth’s Previous Giant-Killings

Plymouth have a history of FA Cup upsets, but this victory over a top‑flight side is arguably their biggest. In recent years they have knocked out higher‑division teams, though none as high‑profile as Liverpool. The club’s official website described the win as “historic”. Explore more on Plymouth Argyle.

How Did the Match Unfold? A Timeline of Key Events

1. Pre‑match:Team news announced; Liverpool field a rotated side; rain at Home Park

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2. First Half (0‑0):Liverpool dominated possession but created few clear chances; Plymouth defended resolutely; best chance: Nunez shot saved

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3. 53rd minute:Plymouth awarded penalty after handball by Harvey Elliott (VAR check). Ryan Hardie converts low to the right

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4. Second Half (post‑goal):Liverpool pushed for equaliser; Salah hit the post; Plymouth held on with last‑ditch defending and Hazard saves

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5. Full‑time:Plymouth Argyle 1‑0 Liverpool; historic giant‑killing

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What Is Certain and What Remains Unclear About the Match?

Established Information

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Information That Remains Unclear The final score is 1‑0 to Plymouth Argyle.

Ryan Hardie scored the only goal from a penalty. Whether Liverpool’s squad rotation was the main reason for the defeat. The match was played at Home Park on 9 February 2025. What line‑up Liverpool will field in their next cup match (they have no further FA Cup games this season). Liverpool were knocked out of the FA Cup. Plymouth’s next FA Cup opponent (fifth round draw pending).

Why Did Liverpool Lose and How Did Plymouth Win?

Liverpool’s rotated side lacked rhythm and cutting edge in the final third. Despite dominating possession, they struggled to break down Plymouth’s deep‑lying defence. Plymouth, by contrast, executed a near‑perfect game plan: stay compact, win second balls, and take the chance when it came. Manager Wayne Rooney (or current manager – reports vary) set up his team to absorb pressure and hit on the counter, but it was a set‑piece situation that ultimately decided the match.

This upset joins a long list of FA Cup giant‑killings, including Wrexham’s defeat of Arsenal in 1992 and Sutton United’s win over Coventry in 1989. The romance of the competition lives on.

What Are the Key Reports and Reactions?

“Plymouth Argyle produced a classic FA Cup giant‑killing…”

— BBC Sport

“Plymouth Argyle pulled off an enormous shock…”

— ESPN

Post‑match comments from Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot (or current manager) acknowledged the team’s lack of sharpness. Plymouth’s players and staff celebrated a result that will be long remembered. Full reactions are available on the official Plymouth Argyle website and Sky Sports highlights page.

What Is the Overall Impact of This Result?

Plymouth Argyle’s victory over Liverpool is one of the most significant FA Cup upsets in recent years. It ends Liverpool’s hopes of a domestic cup double and gives Plymouth a memorable moment in a season focused on Championship survival. The result also reinforces the FA Cup’s reputation for producing unpredictable drama.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Plymouth Argyle vs Liverpool play in the FA Cup 2017?

They played a third‑round match in January 2017, ending 0‑0 at Anfield, with Liverpool winning the replay 1‑0 at Home Park.

Has Plymouth Argyle beaten Manchester City?

Not in the FA Cup; they have faced Manchester City in domestic cups, but results vary. This victory over Liverpool is their most notable cup upset.

Where can I find Liverpool’s full FA Cup fixtures for 2024‑25?

Liverpool were eliminated in the fourth round, so their FA Cup campaign is over. They beat Accrington Stanley in the third round.

What is the record between Plymouth Argyle and Liverpool?

In all competitions, Liverpool have won 3, drawn 2, and lost 2 to Plymouth (including the 2025 result).

Who scored the winning goal for Plymouth?

Ryan Hardie scored the only goal from a penalty in the 53rd minute.

What was the attendance for the match?

Approximately 16,800 spectators were at Home Park.

Who was the referee?

The match was officiated by Samuel Barrott.