Liverpool and Newcastle United are set to clash at Wembley Stadium this Sunday, March 16, 2025, for the Carabao Cup final, where both teams face unique challenges heading toward the much-anticipated match. The kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 PM GMT. This final not only offers Liverpool the chance to defend their title but presents Newcastle with the opportunity to end their long wait for silverware, having last lifted a major trophy 70 years ago.
The Reds, under the management of Arne Slot, are coming off the disappointment of being eliminated from the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain just days prior. Liverpool was defeated on penalties, marking their exit from the prestigious tournament. "You play games like this to win it, and that's what we're going to try to do," Slot remarked, emphasizing his team's desire to reclaim their winning form and secure their first trophy under his leadership. The Carabao Cup was the last trophy won by former manager Jurgen Klopp, and reclaiming it would serve as both redemption and proof of his successor's capabilities.
Newcastle, managed by Eddie Howe, arrives with much motivation. Their last major success was the 1969 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, and they are eager to change their fate after narrowly missing out against Manchester United two years ago when they lost the cup final. "It's not a negative. We're trying to look at it the other way round; it's the chance to make history and be remembered positively," Howe stated. The emotional stakes are high, not only for the players and coaching staff but also for committed fans who have endured years without significant triumph.
Both teams, unfortunately, are dealing with injuries and suspensions. Liverpool’s star defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has been ruled out due to an ankle injury sustained during the Champions League match against PSG. His absence leaves Slot with a gap at right-back, as Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez are also sidelined. Jarell Quansah is expected to step up and start at right-back. "Trent is not available... but we do expect him back before the end of the season," Slot mentioned, hoping for quick recoveries for his limited squad.
For Newcastle, the concerns are similarly challenging. Midfielder Anthony Gordon will miss the final due to suspension after being sent off against Brighton earlier this month, and defenders Sven Botman and Lewis Hall are both recovering from serious injuries. Howe confirmed, “Everyone else is available,” highlighting the team’s unison as they prepare without missing key members. Despite these setbacks, the Magpies have to focus on their game plan and the history they are trying to rewrite.
Newcastle's striker Alexander Isak has been dealing with his own fitness battles. After being substituted due to tightness earlier this month, he assured fans of his readiness to play. "No, I feel good... I've just had a little bit of tightness, which can be normal when you play a lot of games. But yeah, I feel good and I'm really excited for the game," Isak remarked, bolstering confidence among the Newcastle ranks.
With the Carabao Cup serving as their only redemption this season following their Champions League exit, Liverpool will be aiming to make quick work of their emotional recovery. The key will be how well Slot's team can adapt to the pressure of the final, especially with their recent disappointment still fresh.
Historically, Liverpool dominates Newcastle, having secured 95 wins compared to Newcastle’s 50. There have been 45 draws between the two, illustrating the competitive nature of their encounters. But entering this match, both sides recognize the significance of the Carabao Cup, not only as silverware but as a platform to showcase their growth and aspirations.
Interestingly, this match sees both managers under scrutiny. Slot has yet to deliver silverware, and Howe faces the pressure of ending the trophy drought. Speculation surrounds their planned formations and tactical approaches, with Liverpool’s injury dilemmas potentially affecting their performance on the pitch. Notably, Slot has praised Quansah's resilience and talent, stating, "He showed quality... which we knew when we saw him playing last season."
Meanwhile, Newcastle's commitment to overcoming their previous defeats is evident through their preparations and training regimens as they gear up for the final clash. Supporters will be hoping for a historic moment, as the chance to lift the trophy is on the line.
The final promises to be not only exhilarating but also deeply emotional for fans of both clubs, with Newcastle hoping to historicize their efforts and Liverpool intent on reclaiming their dominance. Tune in to witness one of the most fervently contested battles of the season on Sunday.