Newcastle United will take on Liverpool in the highly anticipated Carabao Cup Final on Sunday, March 16th, as they look to end their long domestic trophy drought. The Magpies have not lifted a major domestic cup since 1955, but could this be the year they finally bring silverware back to Tyneside?
While Liverpool enters the final as the overwhelming favorite, Eddie Howe’s men have reasons to believe they can pull off an upset. From key players stepping up to Liverpool’s midweek exhaustion, several factors could work in Newcastle’s favor as they seek Carabao Cup glory at Wembley Stadium.
Liverpool’s Strengths: The Giants Stand in Newcastle’s Way
Liverpool is no stranger to success in this competition. The Reds are the most successful club in Carabao Cup history, with 10 titles to their name, and are also the reigning champions. Arne Slot’s team has been in red-hot form this season, sitting at the top of the Premier League while competing strongly in Europe.
Liverpool’s head-to-head record against Newcastle is also daunting. The Magpies haven’t beaten Liverpool in 17 matches, with their last victory coming in 2015. The most recent meeting between the two sides saw Liverpool emerge victorious just two weeks ago, reinforcing their dominance.
Slot’s tactical approach has made Liverpool more disciplined and patient, allowing them to control games and strike when their opponents show vulnerability. Despite all of this, Newcastle still has reasons to believe they can break their losing streak and lift the cup.
Newcastle’s Deputizing Players: Stepping Up in the Final
Newcastle will be without some key players, including Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall, but they have strong replacements who can rise to the occasion.
One major decision will be at left-back, where Tino Livramento is expected to deputize. His task? Stopping Mohamed Salah, one of the world’s most lethal forwards. Livramento’s right-footed nature could work to his advantage when dealing with Salah’s trademark cut-ins.
To Wembley ⚫️⚪️ #wedontdoquiet pic.twitter.com/sFFp6fLaEV
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) March 12, 2025
Meanwhile, Harvey Barnes will likely replace Gordon on the left flank. Although Barnes hasn’t been as impactful this season, he has a knack for scoring in crucial moments, as seen in his winning goal against Wolves earlier in the campaign. If Barnes can find his finishing touch, Newcastle’s attack will have a sharper edge.
Key Players for Newcastle: Isak Holds the Key
If Newcastle is to win this final, Alexander Isak will be the man to watch. The Swedish striker has been in sensational form, scoring 22 goals in all competitions this season.
Isak has already caused Liverpool major problems this season. In the 3-3 draw against the Reds in December, he was one of the standout performers, scoring and providing an assist while terrorizing Virgil van Dijk.
Wembley ready. pic.twitter.com/OJQMEMYpqI
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) March 13, 2025
In Newcastle’s 2023 Carabao Cup Final defeat to Manchester United, they struggled with a lack of cutting edge in front of goal. This time, with Isak leading the line, the Magpies have a genuine world-class finisher capable of turning the game in their favor.
Another key area is midfield, where Magpies trio of Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton will be crucial. They bring a perfect blend of aggression, energy, and technical ability, which could be vital in disrupting Liverpool’s rhythm.
If Magpies can dominate the midfield battle and feed Isak with quality chances, their hopes of winning the final will rise significantly.
Liverpool’s Weaknesses: A Fatigued and Depleted Squad
While Liverpool remains the favorite, their weaknesses are evident, especially after their midweek Champions League elimination against PSG.
Playing 120 minutes against PSG will have taken a physical toll on the squad. Fatigue could play a huge role, and Newcastle will be eager to exploit that by playing at a high tempo from the start.
Defensively, Liverpool is struggling with injuries. Trent Alexander-Arnold is ruled out, and there are concerns over Ibrahima Konate’s fitness. With Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley also sidelined, Liverpool could be forced to play defensive midfielder Wataru Endo at center-back, alongside Jarell Quansah at right-back.
This makeshift defense is far from ideal for a final, and Newcastle’s attacking players will sense an opportunity to exploit any vulnerabilities at the back.
Newcastle’s Mentality: Embracing the Underdog Role
Going into this game as underdogs may work in Newcastle’s favor. Eddie Howe has cultivated an “us vs. them” mentality at the club, which fuels their fighting spirit.
We’ve seen this before—Newcastle thrived as underdogs in the Champions League group stage, famously beating PSG 4-1 at St. James’ Park. That night, they played with intensity, hunger, and belief—qualities they must replicate against Liverpool.
Additionally, losing the Carabao Cup final in 2023 will serve as extra motivation. Many of these players experienced the heartbreak of defeat, and they won’t want to relive that pain.
Can Newcastle Make History?
Liverpool’s experience and squad depth make them clear favorites, but Newcastle has the tools to cause an upset.
If Isak delivers in front of goal, if Newcastle’s midfield wins the battle, and if they take advantage of Liverpool’s defensive weaknesses, history could be made at Wembley.
One thing is for sure—Magpies will give everything to turn their Carabao Cup dreams into reality.
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