Bergvall netted the winner with his first Tottenham goalCredit: Getty

Tottenham  has taken a crucial lead in the semifinals of the English League Cup, defeating defending champions Liverpool 1-0 in the first leg, a match overshadowed by the unfortunate collapse of Rodrigo Bentancur.

During the game, Rodrigo Bentancur suffered a serious injury that saw him stretchered off, but fortunately, he is said to be conscious and now being treated in hospital.

The game took place in North London, with the first half remaining goalless but marked by the alarming incident involving Uruguayan midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur. The 27-year-old fell to the ground after a sickening collision with the pitch while attempting to head the ball from a corner.

Bentancur received approximately 10 minutes of medical attention on the field before being stretchered off, making way for teammate Brennan Johnson.

At halftime, the London club confirmed that Bentancur “is conscious, speaking, and will be taken to the hospital for further examinations.”

In the second half, as Portuguese player Diogo Jota had already been substituted for the Reds, Tottenham found the breakthrough almost at the end through Swedish forward Lucas Bergvall in the 86th minute.

Read more: The Troubling Signs That Led to Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham DepartureThe two teams will meet again at Anfield on February 6 for the second leg.

On Tuesday, Newcastle took a significant step towards the final after defeating Arsenal 2-0 away from home.

Strikers Alexander Isak, after 37 minutes, and Anthony Gordon, in the 51st minute, scored the goals for the Magpies, who will host the Gunners on February 5 at St. James’ Park for the second leg.