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AFC Bournemouth to host Liverpool in Carabao Cup after cruising past Stoke City

Cherries boss Andoni Iraola reacts to his team's fourth round draw after victory in the Carabao Cup.

AFC Bournemouth set up a Carabao Cup showdown with Liverpool next month, having comfortably recorded a 2-0 victory over Stoke City at Vitality Stadium on Wednesday.

Second-half strikes from Dominic Solanke and Joe Rothwell ensured the Dorset club progressed to the fourth round, where they will host Jurgen Klopp’s Reds during the week commencing Monday, October 30.

Nine-times League Cup winners Liverpool came from a goal down to beat Leicester City 3-1 at Anfield to ensure their progress – with goals coming from Cody Gakpo, Diogo Jota and a stunning effort from Domink Szoboszlai.

Our round four opponents are confirmed, Liverpool at home ?? pic.twitter.com/kbLV7Zv016
— AFC Bournemouth ?? (@afcbournemouth) September 27, 2023

Reacting to the cup draw following his team’s win over the Potters, Cherries boss Andoni Iraola said: “It’s a tough one but I’m pleased it’s at home.

“We wouldn’t have chosen Liverpool, for sure, and we will have to give it our best. We have to make them play a good game if they are to come here and win. It’s not an easy draw.”

Having reached the third round following a 3-2 victory over Swansea City last month, Cherries took the lead six minutes into the second half against Championship outfit Stoke.

A quickly taken free-kick from Rothwell after a foul on Lewis Cook allowed Adam Smith to swing in a menacing cross from the right.

After bringing the ball down and firing on the turn, former Liverpool man Solanke found the bottom corner from eight yards out, having replaced Antoine Semenyo at half-time.

Rothwell himself then got in on the act three minutes later.

His free-kick on the angle of the box evaded everybody and fell inside the far post to ensure his first goal for the club, since signing on a free transfer from Blackburn Rovers last summer.

Solanke himself was then replaced as a precaution by Kieffer Moore five minutes from time, with Iraola confirming he would be assessed regarding an ankle problem.