Newcastle United has etched its name back on the trophy list, as they triumphed over Liverpool 2-1 to win the Carabao Cup on March 16, 2025. This monumental victory ended a staggering 70-year wait for silverware for the Magpies, with Bruno Guimaraes playing a pivotal role throughout the match.
Held at Wembley, the final saw Newcastle’s Dan Burn open the scoring early, giving the Geordies the momentum they needed. Alexander Isak doubled the lead, scoring after having one goal initially ruled out. Despite Liverpool’s Federico Chiesa pulling one back near the end, Newcastle's defense held firm, securing the enduring win fans had been longing for.
Bruno Guimaraes, who performed outstandingly as the captain, played the full 90 minutes and culminated the match by lifting the trophy alongside teammates Kieran Trippier and Jamal Lascelles. Delivering his emotions to the supporters, he said, "Speechless! After 70 years, we can say we are champions again! A long text ahead because now I just want to celebrate. 39 forever," capturing not only the moment but the historic achievement as well.
After the conclusion of the game, Guimaraes appeared on Sky Sports to express his infectious enthusiasm: "It's all for these fans. They deserve everything. When I first came here, I said I wanted to put my name in history. We can now say we are the champions again. This is one of the best days of my life." His connection to the club is palpable, indicating his commitment amid swirling transfer speculations.
Guimaraes' performance this season has been nothing short of spectacular. He has made 37 appearances, scoring three goals and delivering eight assists across 3,006 minutes of action. His talent has not gone unnoticed as Manchester City, among other elite clubs, have shown interest, making Newcastle's task of retaining him increasingly challenging.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Guimaraes wore a special black and white hat during celebrations after the final whistle. This hat, gifted to him by young fan Henley weeks earlier, became symbolic of the bond between players and the passionate Newcastle supporters. Henley’s mother, Megan Price, proudly shared the story on social media, stating, "Weeks ago my son Henley gave Bruno a hat so they could match; today Bruno took it to Wembley and wore it holding our first cup in 70 years. What a man he is, and what a club we have got! Howay the lads!"
Fans took to social media to commend Guimaraes, with one stating, "What a magnificent human being he is." His humility and connection with the fans have endeared him even more, making the victory far more memorable.
Meanwhile, club legend Alan Shearer acknowledged Guimaraes’ contributions throughout the celebratory events. Shearer was spotted reveling alongside the team and showing his appreciation through supporting messages on social media, adding to the sense of unity and pride within the squad.
Despite the euphoric atmosphere following the trophy win, there looms uncertainty over the future of Guimaraes, whose performances have attracted significant attention from higher-profile clubs willing to offer substantial figures to lure him away from St. James' Park. Nevertheless, Guimaraes' immediate commitment to celebrating this moment indicates his focus on the present rather than transfer talks.
While Liverpool's possession statistics showed they dominated with 66%, the match statistics tell another story. Newcastle outshone them with 17 shots to Liverpool's 7, securing 6 shots on target compared to Liverpool's 2. Newcastle committed 10 fouls, just 4 less than Liverpool's tally of 14, showcasing their tenacity and determination throughout the match.
This victory is not just another trophy for Newcastle but rather signifies the beginning of what fans hope will be many more successful campaigns. The unity displayed between the club, its players, and passionate supporters is set to continue propelling Newcastle to potential glories, igniting hope and excitement among the fans as the season progresses.
