Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praised Caoimhin Kelleher after the Republic of Ireland saved two penalties in the Caraboa Cup shootout win over Leicester City at Anfield on Wednesday night.
The 23-year-old also made crucial saves in the second half as a thrilling quarter-final ended 3-3.
"It's not the first time he was part of these spectacular games," said Klopp.
"But this a step forward and he saved our life, he was really helpful tonight."
Liverpool fought back from 2-0 and 3-1 down with Takumi Minamino's last-gasp equaliser forcing the shootout.
Kelleher saved spot-kicks from Luke Thomas and Ryan Bertrand to help the hosts to a 5-4 penalties success.