EFL: Bree's Late Winner Sends Southampton Past Stoke City

Southampton Advances to Carabao Cup Quarter-Finals

“We should have made it easier.”

Southampton defeats Stoke City 3-2 in Carabao Cup, James Bree scores late winner.

Southampton secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Stoke City in the Carabao Cup, booking their spot in the quarter-finals. James Bree's 88th-minute winner proved decisive.

Dominant First Half

The Saints dominated the opening half, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Taylor Harwood-Bellis headed home from Matheus Fernandes' corner in the 23rd minute. Adam Armstrong doubled the lead, converting a penalty after Jaden Dixon fouled Yukinari Sugawara.

Stoke City Fights Back

Stoke pulled one back just before halftime through Ashley Phillips' impressive backheel finish. Eric Bocat's free-kick bounced off Sugawara, setting up Phillips' first senior goal.

Thrilling Second Half

The second half saw Stoke equalize through Tom Cannon's first-time finish at the far post. Junior Tchamadeu's cross was deflected into Cannon's path.

Late Drama

Substitute Million Manhoef nearly gave Stoke the lead, but Sugawara's crucial interception prevented the goal. Minutes later, Bree sealed Southampton's victory with a shot from the edge of the area.

Manager's Reaction

Russell Martin, serving a touchline ban, expressed mixed emotions. “We should have made it easier,” he said. “We were dominant in the first half and should have gone in 2-0 up.” Martin praised his team's performance but acknowledged room for improvement.

Southampton will learn their quarter-final opponents in Wednesday's draw.