In a landmark moment for English football, Newcastle have ended their 70-year wait for a domestic trophy by defeating a heavily favored Liverpool in the 2024/25 Carabao Cup Final. Though the EFL Cup may not command the same prestige as the FA Cup or the Premier League, it remains a coveted piece of silverware—particularly for a club that has craved success for so long.

Heading into the Wembley showdown, many expected the likely future Premier League champions Liverpool to coast to victory. Yet the Merseysiders—still reeling from a midweek exit in the UEFA Champions League at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain—looked visibly fatigued. Manager Arne Slot rotated his squad as much as possible, but admitted beforehand that his options were limited.

The fresher legs belonged to Newcastle, who seized their chance. Two unanswered goals flew past Caoimhin Kelleher, putting the Magpies firmly in control. Only in the dying minutes did Liverpool muster a genuine response, culminating in a late goal from substitute Federico Chiesa—assisted by an uncharacteristically subdued Mohamed Salah, who struggled to influence the match until that point.

By then, however, it was too late. Newcastle held on to secure a landmark victory, ending a seven-decade drought and sparking celebrations that will echo throughout Tyneside. For the club’s long-suffering fans, this EFL Cup triumph is more than just another trophy—it’s a symbol of hope and a reminder that glory can return to St. James’ Park.

2024-25, EFL Cup

Liverpool - Newcastle United 1:2 (0:1)
Goals: Burn, 45 (0:1); Isak, 52 (0:2); Chiesa F., 90+4 (1:2)

Liverpool: Kelleher; van Dijk; Konate (Jones Cur., 57); Quansah; Robertson A.; Gravenberch R. (Chiesa F., 74); Mac Allister A. (Gakpo, 67); Szoboszlai; Jota (Núñez D., 57); Salah; Luis Díaz (Elliott H., 74)
Bench: Alisson; Tsimikas; Endo W.; McConnell J.
Yellow Cards: Chiesa F. 90+8

Newcastle United: Pope; Burn; Livramento; Trippier; Schär; Barnes H. (Willock, 81); Bruno Guimarães; Tonali; Joelinton; Isak (Wilson C., 81); Murphy J-b (Krafth E., 90)
Bench: Dubravka; Longstaff S.; Targett; Miley; Osula; Neave
Yellow Cards: Pope 90; Tonali 90+9