The Carabao Cup, often referred to as the League Cup, marks the earliest opportunity for English clubs to secure silverware each season. For Liverpool, the defending champions, this is a chance to solidify their dominance in the competition, having lifted the trophy a record 10 times, most recently last season with a dramatic extra-time victory over Chelsea. Newcastle United, on the other hand, are chasing their first major trophy since the 1955 FA Cup, aiming to end a 70-year drought and write a new chapter in their storied history.
Both teams have navigated a challenging path to the final. Liverpool overcame Tottenham Hotspur in the semi-finals, bouncing back from a 1-0 first-leg deficit to secure a commanding 4-0 win at Anfield in the return leg. Newcastle United, meanwhile, showcased their resilience with a 2-0 victory in both legs against Arsenal, proving their mettle against one of the league’s top sides.
Liverpool, under the guidance of manager Arne Slot, are expected to bring their trademark high-pressing, attacking football to Wembley. Mohamed Salah, who delivered a stellar performance in the semi-final second leg, will be a focal point of their attack. The Egyptian forward’s pace, vision, and goal-scoring prowess could prove decisive. Alongside him, the likes of Cody Gakpo and Darwin Nunez are likely to test Newcastle’s defensive resolve.
Newcastle, led by Eddie Howe, will rely on their disciplined defensive structure and counter-attacking threat. Alexander Isak, the Swedish striker who has been in fine form this season, will be key to their hopes of breaching Liverpool’s backline. Support from the dynamic Anthony Gordon, who scored in both legs against Arsenal, and the midfield tenacity of Bruno Guimarães will be crucial in containing Liverpool’s relentless attack.
Tactically, the match could hinge on the midfield battle. Liverpool’s blend of creativity and work rate, potentially featuring players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones, will face a stern test from Newcastle’s robust midfield, which is expected to include Guimarães and Sean Longstaff. The team that controls the center of the park may well dictate the tempo of the game.
For Liverpool, a victory would mark their third Carabao Cup triumph in four years and their first back-to-back titles since the early 1980s. It would also serve as a statement of intent for Slot, who is looking to secure his first trophy since taking the reins at Anfield. The Reds are currently atop the Premier League table and are favored to qualify for next season’s Champions League, meaning the Conference League spot awarded to the Carabao Cup winner could pass to another team if they maintain their league form.
Newcastle, meanwhile, are desperate to end their long wait for silverware. Having reached the final in 2023, only to lose 2-0 to Manchester United, the Magpies see this as a golden opportunity to right the wrongs of the past. A win would not only bring joy to their passionate fanbase, known as the Toon Army, but also secure a place in the 2025-26 UEFA Conference League play-off round, marking their return to European competition.
Wembley Stadium is expected to be a cauldron of noise, with Newcastle allocated 31,939 tickets for the West End of the stadium. The Toon Army, renowned for their vocal support, will be out in full force, backed by celebrity fans like musician James Bay, who has expressed excitement for the occasion. Liverpool supporters, equally passionate, will fill the opposite end, creating an electric atmosphere under the iconic Wembley arch.
Fans in the UK can watch the match live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football, with free-to-air coverage also available on ITV1 and online via ITVX, thanks to a new broadcasting agreement. In the United States, Paramount+ and CBS Sports Golazo will provide live coverage, while global audiences can follow live text commentary on platforms like GOAL.
Analysts and fans alike anticipate a closely contested match. Liverpool’s attacking firepower and recent form make them slight favorites, with many predicting a 2-1 victory for the Reds. However, Newcastle’s defensive solidity and counter-attacking threat mean they cannot be underestimated. A tight, low-scoring affair decided by a moment of brilliance or a defensive error is a distinct possibility.
The stakes are high for both teams. For Liverpool, it’s about maintaining their status as one of England’s elite clubs. For Newcastle, it’s a chance to end decades of frustration and signal their resurgence under Howe’s leadership. Whatever the outcome, Sunday’s final is set to be a memorable occasion in the 2024-25 football calendar.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, the question on everyone’s mind is: Will Liverpool’s experience and quality prevail, or will Newcastle’s hunger and determination see them lift the trophy?