Newcastle United clinched a historic 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final, marking their first major domestic trophy in 70 years and sparking euphoric celebrations among tens of thousands of travelling fans at Wembley.
The win, delivered in front of a roaring sea of black and white, was not just a trophy—it was a defining moment for the Magpies, whose last major domestic triumph came in the 1955 FA Cup.
From the outset, Eddie Howe’s side showcased their intent, dominating early proceedings. Dan Burn, the local hero and captain for the day, opened the scoring with a powerful unmarked header from a well-delivered corner—sending the Newcastle faithful into raptures.
Before the break, Alexander Isak doubled the lead, finishing off a blistering counter-attack with trademark composure, slipping the ball past Liverpool’s goalkeeper to make it 2-0. The Swedish striker’s clinical finish highlighted Newcastle’s precision in key moments—a stark contrast to their nervy performance in the 2023 final against Manchester United.
Liverpool, under manager Arne Slot, mounted a late response. In second-half stoppage time, Federico Chiesa pulled one back following a tense two-minute VAR review, reigniting hopes of a dramatic comeback. But Newcastle’s defence, marshalled by the ever-reliable Kieran Trippier, held firm to seal a memorable win.
The final whistle triggered scenes of jubilation, with fans celebrating both in the stands and back home across Tyneside. For many, it was more than a cup win—it was the culmination of decades of hope, heartbreak, and unwavering loyalty.
Despite battling injuries to key players like Sven Botman and Lewis Hall, and a suspension for Anthony Gordon, Newcastle’s resilience and squad unity proved decisive. Howe’s tactical approach and game management drew praise from pundits and former players alike.
“Newcastle outfought and outthought Liverpool,” said Alan Shearer on BBC Sport. “This is a monumental achievement for a club that’s waited so long. The scenes at Wembley say it all.
Statistically, Newcastle edged the contest with 14 shots to Liverpool’s 10, a superior expected goals (xG) of 1.8 to 1.2, and a nearly even share of possession. Yet it was their decisiveness in front of goal and disciplined defending that made the difference.
For Liverpool, it was a second blow in a difficult week, following their Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties. With Trent Alexander-Arnold and other key defenders out injured, the Reds struggled to contain Newcastle’s intensity and swift transitions.
The Magpies’ win is also symbolic of a new era under Saudi-backed ownership, showcasing progress under Howe’s leadership and laying down a marker in English football. Their last major honour came in 1969 with the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, but this Carabao Cup success may signal the dawn of a new trophy-laden chapter.
As the players lifted the silverware, chants of “Howay the Lads!” echoed through Wembley—a sound seven decades in the making, now finally realised.
