Liverpool chase an unprecedented 11th Carabao Cup trophy when they face Newcastle United at Wembley on today, March 16, 2025 (kick‑off 4:30 PM GMT).
The Reds lifted the EFL Cup last year with a dramatic 1‑0 win over Chelsea in extra time and remain the competition’s most successful side with ten titles already.
Newcastle arrive desperate. Their last major domestic honour came in 1955, and they’ve lost five straight cup finals since—including the League Cup in 1976 and 2023. A win would end a 70‑year wait and deliver manager Eddie Howe his first trophy as Magpies boss.
Mohamed Salah remains the narrative-defining figure. In 17 Premier League games versus Newcastle, he’s directly involved in 18 goals—10 scored, 8 assisted.
In the dramatic 3‑3 draw at St James’ Park in December 2024, Salah scored twice and set up another, nudging him to the record for most matches with both a goal and an assist (37).
Yet Liverpool face a defensive crisis. Trent Alexander‑Arnold, Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez are sidelined. Curtis Jones may slot in at right‑back, while Ibrahima Konaté is expected to return alongside Virgil van Dijk at centre‑back.
Newcastle’s injury list is equally long: Anthony Gordon is suspended, Lewis Hall and Sven Botman are out. They’ll rely on Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy flanking Alexander Isak. Dan Burn anchors the defence.
History and momentum collide. Liverpool seek back‑to‑back titles and to match Manchester United’s haul, while Newcastle aim to absolve decades of heartbreak.
We edge towards a classic.