The EFL Cup final between Liverpool and Newcastle United is set to ignite passions as both teams meet at Wembley on Sunday, March 16, 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:30 PM GMT. With Liverpool defending their title and aiming for another trophy, Newcastle United are desperate to secure their first piece of silverware since 1955. This match not only gives Liverpool another chance to extend their impressive trophy haul but also places Newcastle at the precipice of breaking their long-standing trophy drought.
This year’s final arrives against the backdrop of shifting fortunes for both clubs. Liverpool, currently sitting atop the Premier League with a significant lead, has faced recent setbacks, being knocked out of the UEFA Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain just days before the final. Mohamed Salah, the team’s talisman, brings formidable experience and form, having directly contributed to 44 goals this season. Liverpool has won this cup 10 times and is historically the most successful club within this competition, seeking to make it 11 titles.
On the other hand, Newcastle United enters Wembley after overcoming several hurdles to reach this stage. Despite having some inconsistencies lately, they pulled off hard-fought victories against tough opponents like Arsenal to secure their spot. Unfortunately for Newcastle, the EFL Cup final also marks the absence of key players. Anthony Gordon is suspended after his red card during the FA Cup, and Lewis Hall has been ruled out due to injury. These absentees will challenge Eddie Howe’s side, who are eager to end 70 years without winning any major domestic cup.
Head-to-head, Liverpool has dominated recent encounters, winning 12 of the last 17 meetings since Newcastle last tasted victory against them back in December 2015. Their last match, which ended 2-0 to Liverpool, showcased their tactical superiority, even with key players missing. Alexander Isak's return to fitness could spark hope for Newcastle fans since he has shown prolific scoring ability, netting 22 goals in all competitions this season.
Another key area to watch will be the midfield battles. Newcastle’s physical style under Howe has often disrupted opponents' rhythm and they will be relying on players like Joelinton and Bruno Guimarães to dominate the central areas. Liverpool counters with the trio of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai, each capable of creating significant goal-scoring opportunities.
The tactical setups could be decisive. Liverpool, typically prone to fast-paced transitions, will look to exploit any gaps left by Newcastle’s defensive reshuffle due to absences on their left flank. Similarly, Newcastle will aim to leverage their strengths, turning the match physical to disrupt Liverpool's game flow.
Wembley Stadium, known for its grandeur and rich history, will be filled with fans from both sides hoping to witness their team ascend as champions. The stakes are high, and the outcome, unpredictable.
Lastly, this final marks only the third meeting between the two clubs at this prestigious stage, with Liverpool having bested Newcastle 3-0 back in the 1974 FA Cup final. Newcastle's long-standing struggles at Wembley have created an air of anticipation around this match, as they will look to reverse their fortunes.
Fans are encouraged to tune in live for the historic clash, with coverage available on ITV and Sky Sports in the UK, as well as various streaming platforms around the globe. Will Liverpool solidify their status as the kings of the EFL Cup, or will Newcastle rise to the occasion and claim their place back among the elite of English football?