Liverpool 1 – 2 Newcastle United
Newcastle United has secured its first major trophy since 1969, ending a long-awaited drought with a thrilling victory over Liverpool.
Before the match, Newcastle legend Alan Shearer said, “I might be biased, but if any club’s fans deserve a trophy, it’s Newcastle United. Generations have passed without a major title, yet the fans have remained loyal.” His words rang true as Newcastle finally lifted the League Cup, defeating Liverpool in a dream night for the club and its supporters.
Eddie Howe’s side triumphed 2-1 in the final at Wembley on Sunday. Dan Burn put Newcastle ahead in first-half injury time, and Alexander Isak doubled the lead early in the second half. Federico Chiesa pulled one back for Liverpool in stoppage time, but Newcastle held on to claim the title.
Despite having over 65% possession, Liverpool struggled to break down Newcastle’s defense. They managed just seven shots, only two on target, compared to Newcastle’s 17 attempts, six of which tested the goalkeeper.
This marks Newcastle’s first domestic silverware since winning the FA Cup in 1955 and their first major title since lifting the Fairs Cup (now the Europa League) in 1969.
After finishing as League Cup runners-up in 2022-23, Newcastle finally got their moment of glory, while Liverpool suffered another disappointment. Just days earlier, they were eliminated from the Champions League Round of 16, losing to PSG on penalties.
A Match of Missed Chances and Heroic Defending
Both teams struggled to create clear opportunities in the early stages. In the 24th minute, Sandro Tonali nearly put Newcastle ahead with a long-range effort that narrowly missed the post.
Liverpool’s Andrew Robertson made two crucial saves in the 34th minute—first blocking an Isak header, then throwing himself in front of a powerful Kieran Trippier shot.
A minute later, Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães had a golden chance with a close-range header, but Liverpool’s goalkeeper reacted swiftly to deny him.
Breakthrough Before Half-Time
Newcastle finally broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time. Trippier delivered a corner, and the towering Burn, left unmarked, powered a header past the Liverpool goalkeeper.
At the start of the second half, Isak found the net again, but the goal was ruled out for offside. However, the Swedish forward didn’t have to wait long. Moments later, Jacob Murphy’s header found him near the penalty spot, and he calmly slotted the ball home to make it 2-0.
Liverpool briefly showed signs of a comeback in the 59th minute, but Curtis Jones’ shot was denied by Newcastle’s keeper. Five minutes later, Isak missed a golden opportunity to seal the win, firing straight at the goalkeeper from close range.
A Nervy Finish, but Newcastle Hold On
Liverpool spent most of the match struggling in attack, but they finally got a breakthrough in the 94th minute. Chiesa found the net after an initial offside call was overturned by VAR, sparking late drama.
However, Newcastle held firm in the closing moments, defending with everything they had. As the final whistle blew, the players and fans erupted in celebration—tears of joy, wide smiles, and the end of a 56-year-long wait for glory.
