Zara Shaw marked her return from injury in dramatic fashion, scoring a late extra-time winner to seal Liverpool’s place in the FA Cup semi-finals with victory over WSL 2 side Charlton.
The 18-year-old, who came on in the 103rd minute after recovering from a serious ACL injury suffered in April 2025, struck the decisive goal in chaotic fashion.
After a corner caused panic in the Charlton defence - with Liverpool hitting the woodwork twice and seeing an effort cleared off the line - Shaw was on hand to bundle the ball home.
It proved to be the only goal in a match that lacked quality in the final third, despite Liverpool controlling large portions of the game.
The visitors dominated possession and limited Charlton’s attacking opportunities but struggled to seriously test goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse.
Liverpool thought they had broken the deadlock on two occasions, only for both goals to be ruled out - one for offside in normal time and another for handball during extra time.
Charlton, pushing for promotion from WSL 2, defended resolutely and maintained a disciplined press throughout, frustrating Liverpool for long spells.
However, they offered little threat going forward and were unable to capitalise on their defensive resilience.
Despite progressing, Liverpool’s performance raised concerns about their effectiveness in attack.
They created opportunities - registering 2.34 expected goals during normal time - but lacked the clinical edge to convert them.
Mia Enderby came closest early on, only to be denied by a strong save from Whitehouse, while Martha Thomas had a late effort comfortably dealt with.
Another chance saw Beata Olsson’s clever backheel ruled out for offside.
Charlton initially showed promise through former Liverpool forward Amalie Thestrup but gradually retreated into a defensive shape, managing minimal attacking involvement in the second half.
Thomas did find the net in extra time from a corner, but the goal was disallowed after a handball in the build-up.
In the end, Shaw’s persistence made the difference, ensuring Liverpool avoided a potential upset and secured a place in the semi-finals for the second consecutive season, having been beaten by Chelsea at that stage last year.
Elsewhere, Brighton have already booked their spot in the final four after defeating Arsenal, with the remaining quarter-finals set to take place on Monday.
