Today, Liverpool and Newcastle United will face off at Wembley Stadium for the final of the EFL Carabao Cup. This match represents two very different stories: one club steeped in trophy-laden history, and the other desperate to end decades of domestic drought.
With both teams eyeing the first domestic trophy of the season, this Carabao Cup Final 2025 promises to deliver drama, passion, and high-quality football. Let’s dive deep into the build-up, team journeys, current form, key players, injuries, and head-to-head stats before this epic showdown.
The Road to the Final
Liverpool’s Route – A New Era Under Arne Slot
With Arne Slot at the helm, Liverpool have navigated the post Jurgen Klopp era remarkably well. The Reds’ Carabao Cup run has been a display of both attacking brilliance and defensive resilience.
Third Round: Liverpool 5-1 West Ham- Fourth Round: Brighton 2-3 Liverpool
- Quarter-Final: Southampton 1-2 Liverpool
- Semi-Final First Leg: Tottenham 1-0 Liverpool
- Semi-Final Second Leg: Liverpool 4-0 Tottenham
Despite losing the first leg against Spurs, Liverpool produced a commanding performance at Anfield, turning the tie around emphatically to book yet another trip to Wembley.
Newcastle’s Route – A Symbol of Hope
For Newcastle United, this Carabao Cup campaign has been more than just a quest for silverware it represents a chance for redemption. The Magpies haven’t lifted a major domestic trophy since 1955, and this final could finally end that painful drought. True to their identity under Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s road to Wembley has been built on defensive solidity and clinical finishing.
- Second Round: Newcastle 1-1 Nottingham Forest (Won 4-3 on penalties)
- Third Round: Newcastle 1-0 AFC Wimbledon
- Fourth Round: Newcastle 2-0 Chelsea
- Quarter-Final: Brentford 1-3 Newcastle
- Semi-Final First Leg: Arsenal 0-2 Newcastle
- Semi-Final Second Leg: Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal
Eliminating Arsenal, one of England’s elite clubs, highlighted Newcastle’s ability to rise to the occasion a quality they will need again against Liverpool.
Current Form – Two Different Stories
Liverpool: Confidence and Consistency
Leaving aside their Champions League elimination by P.S.G, Liverpool head into the final in excellent shape. Under Arne Slot, they have adapted quickly to a new tactical system, blending high pressing, direct transitions, and ruthless finishing. Currently, Liverpool sit top of the Premier League with 70 points, far ahead of their competitors, and are in strong contention for the Premier League title.
Their dominance over Tottenham in the semi-final was a clear reminder that this squad still knows how to deliver on the big stage. Combined with their recent 2-0 win over Newcastle in the league, they approach this final brimming with confidence.
Newcastle: A Season of Ups and Downs
For Newcastle, it’s been a season filled with contrasts. While their Carabao Cup campaign has been remarkably strong, their Premier League form has been inconsistent. Recent defeats to teams like Brighton and Fulham have raised questions about their ability to handle pressure.
Adding to the challenge, key players are missing through injury and suspension, meaning Eddie Howe will need to rotate smartly and trust his squad depth to deliver a historic performance at Wembley.
Injury and Suspension Report
Liverpool: Defensive Concerns*
Liverpool will miss several important defenders for the final. Trent Alexander-Arnorld is out aldo Joe Gomez is out after undergoing hamstring surgery while promising full-back Conor Bradley remains a major doubt. In midfield, Tyler Morton is also absent after shoulder surgery.
These injuries could force Arne Slot to shuffle his defensive setup, potentially creating vulnerabilities that Newcastle will look to exploit.
Newcastle: Major Absences*
Newcastle’s problems are even greater. Anthony Gordon, a key attacking outlet, is suspended after a red card in the FA Cup. His absence robs Newcastle of one of their most creative and energetic players.
In defense, Lewis Hall is ruled out with a season-ending ankle injury, while Jamaal Lascelles is also unavailable with a knee problem. These absences will test Newcastle’s defensive depth and could force Eddie Howe into tactical adjustments.
Key Players to Watch
Liverpool: Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai
It’s impossible to talk about Liverpool’s chances without mentioning Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian remains the club’s primary offensive weapon, capable of unlocking any defense with his combination of speed, dribbling, and lethal finishing.
Alongside Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai has quickly become a midfield leader. His ability to progress the ball, shoot from distance, and create chances under pressure makes him a vital asset for Liverpool in big games like this.
Newcastle: Alexander Isak
Alexander Isak has scored 22 goals in 31 matches this season, establishing himself as a key figure in Newcastle’s attack. His ability to deliver in crucial moments will be vital for the Magpies in the final against Liverpool. With his speed and movement off the ball, he poses a constant threat to the Reds’ defense, and his performance could well be decisive.
Under contract with Newcastle until 2028, the club is determined to retain their star, but several European giants, including Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Barcelona, are closely monitoring his situation. This final could not only solidify his role as a leader at Newcastle but also attract the attention of these top clubs. Against a formidable team like Liverpool, Isak’s importance will be crucial, and he seems ready to shine under the Wembley spotlight.
Key Statistics and Historical Context
- Head-to-Head: Liverpool defeated Newcastle 2-0 in their last Premier League meeting on February 26, 2025.
- Trophy Drought: Newcastle’s last major domestic trophy was the 1955 FA Cup a 70-year wait they are desperate to end.
- Liverpool’s Pedigree: Liverpool are defending Carabao Cup champions, having won the trophy in 2024.
- Goal Machines: Liverpool have scored 15 goals in this year’s competition, while Newcastle have netted 11 highlighting both sides’ attacking potency.
Final Verdict: Who Has the Edge?
Liverpool arrive at Wembley as strong favorites. Their form, squad depth, and big-game experience give them a clear advantage over Newcastle, who are struggling with injuries and suspensions. However, cup finals have magic of their own, and Newcastle’s hunger to end decades of heartbreak could push them to a historic performance.
One thing is certain: Wembley will witness a spectacle of passion, skill, and drama when these two clubs collide for the first domestic trophy of the season.
