Liverpool vs Newcastle Match

Newcastle United vs. Liverpool: Carabao Cup Final 2025 – A Historic Victory for the Magpies

Introduction

On a dramatic evening at Wembley, Newcastle United defeated Liverpool 2-1 in the Carabao Cup final, securing their first major domestic trophy in 70 years. Goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak ensured victory for Eddie Howe’s side, while Liverpool’s late goal from Federico Chiesa wasn’t enough to turn the tide. This match was not just a battle between two teams; it was a defining moment for Newcastle, signaling their rise as a major force in English football.

First Half: Newcastle’s Tactical Brilliance

Liverpool entered the match as slight favorites, despite being plagued by injuries. Jurgen Klopp’s men, however, were caught off guard by Newcastle’s high-energy pressing and defensive solidity. Newcastle lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on winning the midfield battle and exploiting Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Newcastle’s first breakthrough came in the 35th minute, when a well-delivered cross from Kieran Trippier met the towering Dan Burn, who rose above Liverpool’s defense to power a header past Caoimhín Kelleher. The goal sent Newcastle fans into raptures, and Liverpool struggled to mount an immediate response.

Just before halftime, Alexander Isak doubled Newcastle’s lead. The Swedish striker capitalized on a defensive lapse from Ibrahima Konaté, calmly finishing past Kelleher. Newcastle went into the break with a commanding 2-0 lead, while Liverpool looked disjointed and uninspired.

Second Half: Liverpool’s Desperate Attempt at a Comeback

Klopp made tactical changes at halftime, introducing Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones to add creativity. Liverpool started the second half with more urgency, dominating possession but struggling to break down Newcastle’s compact defense.

Mohamed Salah, who had a rare off-day, failed to register a single shot in the entire match—a shocking statistic given his usual attacking threat. Newcastle’s Fabian Schär and Dan Burn were exceptional in keeping Liverpool’s attack at bay.

Liverpool finally found a breakthrough in the 85th minute, when substitute Federico Chiesa fired a low shot into the net after a clever assist from Luis Díaz. The goal ignited hopes of a comeback, but Newcastle held firm in the closing moments to secure the historic win.

Player Ratings: Newcastle United

• Nick Pope (8/10): Made crucial saves and commanded his box well.
• Kieran Trippier (8.5/10): Provided an assist and was rock solid defensively.
• Fabian Schär (8/10): Composed and effective in keeping Liverpool’s attack quiet.
• Dan Burn (10/10): Man of the Match; scored the opening goal and defended brilliantly.
• Tino Livramento (8/10): Provided width and an assist for Isak’s goal.
• Bruno Guimarães (9/10): Controlled the midfield with his passing and interceptions.
• Sandro Tonali (8.5/10): Physically dominant and excellent in ball retention.
• Joelinton (8.5/10): Played a crucial role in winning second balls and linking play.
• Jacob Murphy (7.5/10): Provided pace and energy on the flanks.
• Alexander Isak (9/10): Scored the decisive second goal and threatened throughout.
• Harvey Barnes (7.5/10): A lively presence in attack, stretching Liverpool’s defense.

Player Ratings: Liverpool

• Caoimhín Kelleher (7/10): Couldn’t do much about the goals; made some good saves.
• Jarell Quansah (6.5/10): Struggled against Newcastle’s attack.
• Ibrahima Konaté (5.5/10): Made costly mistakes leading to Newcastle’s goals.
• Virgil van Dijk (6.5/10): Not at his best, struggled with Newcastle’s physicality.
• Andy Robertson (6/10): Ineffective both defensively and offensively.
• Ryan Gravenberch (6/10): Failed to impose himself in midfield.
• Alexis Mac Allister (6/10): Overwhelmed by Newcastle’s pressing.
• Dominik Szoboszlai (6/10): Lacked impact in the final third.
• Mohamed Salah (5/10): Had a career-first game without a shot or chance created.
• Luis Díaz (7/10): Assisted Chiesa’s goal but struggled to break through Newcastle’s defense.
• Diogo Jota (6.5/10): Worked hard but was largely ineffective.

Tactical Analysis: How Newcastle Outplayed Liverpool

1. Midfield Control: Bruno Guimarães, Tonali, and Joelinton dominated the midfield battle, cutting off Liverpool’s supply lines.
2. Defensive Solidity: Newcastle’s backline, led by Dan Burn and Schär, nullified Liverpool’s attack.
3. Effective Pressing: Newcastle pressed Liverpool high up the pitch, forcing mistakes from their defenders.
4. Clinical Finishing: Newcastle took their chances well, unlike Liverpool, who struggled to convert.

What This Means for Both Teams

Newcastle United: A New Era of Success?

Newcastle’s triumph is a major statement of intent. With financial backing and a solid tactical setup, Eddie Howe has built a formidable squad. This victory could be the start of a golden period for Newcastle, potentially leading to further domestic and European success.

Liverpool: A Season of Reflection

For Liverpool, this defeat is a bitter blow. Klopp’s side, despite their attacking quality, looked out of ideas against a disciplined Newcastle side. With an aging squad and inconsistent performances, Liverpool will need squad reinforcements and tactical adjustments to compete at the highest level.

Conclusion

Newcastle’s historic 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final is a defining moment in their resurgence. This triumph not only ends their long trophy drought but also cements their status as serious contenders in English football. For Liverpool, it’s a wake-up call that change is needed if they are to maintain their elite status. Newcastle’s success story is just beginning, and this win might be the first of many to come.