Southampton, Brentford Advance in League Cup

Southampton and Brentford both advanced to the quarter-finals of the English League Cup with narrow victories over second-tier opponents. Southampton secured a dramatic 3-2 win against Stoke City, with James Bree scoring a late winner after the Saints initially led 2-0 through goals from Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Adam Armstrong. Stoke fought back with goals from Ashley Phillips and Tom Cannon, but Bree's long-range shot clinched the victory. Brentford faced Sheffield Wednesday, where they also drew 1-1 before winning 5-4 on penalties, thanks to a crucial save from goalkeeper Mark Flekken. The results provide some relief for Southampton, who are struggling at the bottom of the Premier League. Upcoming matches include holders Liverpool against Brighton and several other all-Premier League clashes.