Newcastle United celebrated a long-awaited victory, defeating Liverpool 2-1 to claim the Carabao Cup on March 16, 2025, at Wembley Stadium. This landmark win marked Newcastle’s first trophy since 1969, ending a 56-year wait for silverware.
The match began with palpable tension as both sets of fans filled Wembley with anticipation. Newcastle supporters, donned in black-and-white, seemed equally excited and apprehensive, remembering the last time they won any domestic trophy back in 1955. Their fervor was matched only by Liverpool, aiming to defend their title.
Newcastle drew first blood when Dan Burn scored just before halftime. At the 45+1 minute mark, Kieran Trippier’s expertly taken free-kick found Burn, who capitalized on some slack Liverpool marking to score with his head. The goal sent the Newcastle faithful wild, with Alan Shearer among those celebrating exuberantly.
After the break, Newcastle exhibited more energy, and just eight minutes later, Alexander Isak doubled their lead with a well-placed shot. This goal demonstrated Newcastle's attacking prowess, with the team pressing high and forcing mistakes from Liverpool. The goal came at the 53rd minute, as Dan Burn assisted Isak to find the bottom-left corner, leading to jubilant celebrations among the Magpies supporters.
Despite Newcastle's dominance, Liverpool began to find their momentum. A late resurgence saw Federico Chiesa score for Liverpool at the 90+4 minute mark. Initially ruled offside, VAR intervened to confirm the goal, injecting last-minute drama. Liverpool’s fans erupted, but time was running short for the Reds to mount any serious challenge.
Newcastle's goalkeeper, Nick Pope, showcased his skills throughout the match, making key saves to preserve the lead. Pope received a yellow card for time wasting, and the mounting pressure caused him to remain composed, even as Liverpool's attempts increased. He along with defenders like Joelinton made sure to keep Liverpool’s fierce attackers at bay.
The tactical battle saw Newcastle’s manager Eddie Howe outsmart his counterpart, Arne Slot of Liverpool, leading the Magpies through adversity, considering key absences including Anthony Gordon (suspended) and defenders Lewis Hall and Sven Botman (both injured). Howe’s decisions proved pivotal, with Newcastle’s midfield trio of Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton controlling the game.
Despite their frantic efforts during the closing minutes, Liverpool appeared disjointed, suffering from the aftereffects of their recent Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain. This heartbreaking defeat stung their recent form, creating doubts on their performance against Newcastle.
By the match's conclusion, the Newcastle bench erupted as the full-time whistle blew, marking the end of their 56-year drought. The players celebrated on the pitch with their traveling support, culminating what had been described as “a giant Newcastle party.” Fans celebrated through the night, from Wembley back to Tyneside, establishing new legends and memories.
History weighs heavily on Newcastle's shoulders, as this triumph not only ensures their place among Europe’s elite for next season but also solidifies Howe’s legacy as the man who returned glory to St. James’ Park.