Gabriel Slonina Shines as Barnsley Triumphs in Carabao Cup Shoot-Out

Debutant goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina emerged as the hero as Barnsley advanced to the second round of the Carabao Cup with a dramatic 4-2 penalty shoot-out win over Wigan Athletic. Slonina's penalty-saving heroics ensured Barnsley progressed after a 1-1 draw in regular time.

Wigan took the lead in the 34th minute when Calvin Ramsay was fouled in the box by Barnsley’s Vimal Yoganathan. Thelo Aasgaard stepped up and converted the resulting penalty, marking Wigan's first goal of the 2024-25 season. The hosts could have extended their lead shortly after, but Aasgaard’s one-on-one effort was denied by Slonina, who made a crucial save to keep Barnsley in the game.

Barnsley equalized early in the second half, with Donovan Pines heading in from a corner to level the score. Despite pressure from both sides, including a last-minute attempt by Barnsley’s Max Watters that was cleared off the line, the match remained tied at 1-1, forcing the contest to a penalty shoot-out.

In the shoot-out, Slonina’s heroics came to the fore as he saved penalties from Josh Stones and Thelo Aasgaard. His impressive performance between the posts proved pivotal, as Barnsley scored four of their own penalties to secure a 4-2 victory in the shoot-out and progress to the next round.

Slonina’s debut was marked by a series of crucial saves and a standout performance, making him the key figure in Barnsley's advancement. The Tykes, despite being pushed to the limit, navigated their way through the first round thanks to their new goalkeeper’s standout display.