Newcastle end 56-year wait for silverware with Carabao Cup

Newcastle United have finally ended their long wait for a major trophy, securing the 2025 Carabao Cup with a 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Wembley. The Magpies, who last won a domestic title in 1955, produced a spirited and disciplined display to overcome Arne Slot’s side, dealing Liverpool their second major blow in a matter of days following their Champions League exit.

Newcastle’s dream final turns into reality

The build-up to the final saw Newcastle fans flood the streets of London, turning the English capital into a sea of black and white. The Toon Army, desperate for success, outnumbered Liverpool’s traveling support in sheer enthusiasm, knowing they had a chance to witness history. Despite missing key players like Sven Botman, Lewis Hall, and Anthony Gordon, Newcastle entered the final with confidence under Eddie Howe. For Liverpool, the final provided an opportunity to bounce back from their painful Champions League elimination at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain. Slot made notable lineup changes, with Jarell Quansah replacing the injured Trent Alexander-Arnold and Caoimhín Kelleher continuing as the designated cup goalkeeper. Cody Gakpo started on the bench, with Diogo Jota leading the attack.

Dan Burn’s fairytale moment

From the first whistle, Newcastle showed more urgency and intensity. They pressed Liverpool aggressively and prevented the Reds from finding their rhythm. Despite a lack of clear-cut chances, the Magpies dictated the tempo, and their persistence paid off just before halftime. In the 45th minute, Dan Burn etched his name into Newcastle folklore. The lifelong Magpies fan, who once had to leave the club’s academy, rose highest to meet a pinpoint cross and powered a header past Kelleher. The stadium erupted as Newcastle took a 1-0 lead, with Burn celebrating the biggest goal of his career just days after earning his first England call-up.

Isak strikes as Newcastle tighten their grip

Liverpool needed a response in the second half, but Newcastle continued to control the game. Their defensive solidity and midfield energy frustrated the Premier League leaders, and in the 62nd minute, Alexander Isak doubled the advantage. After seeing an earlier goal ruled out, the Swedish forward made no mistake with his second attempt, sending Newcastle fans into delirium. At that moment, Liverpool had yet to register a single shot on target, highlighting Newcastle’s dominance. Slot reacted by making several substitutions, bringing on Curtis Jones, Darwin Núñez, Gakpo, Federico Chiesa, and Harvey Elliott to shake things up. However, Newcastle remained resilient, and Isak nearly put the game beyond doubt with a third goal, only for Kelleher to produce a crucial save.

Liverpool’s late push not enough

As the game entered stoppage time, Liverpool finally found a way through. Chiesa pulled one back in the dying moments to make it 2-1, briefly raising hopes of a dramatic comeback. But Newcastle held firm, and as the final whistle blew, celebrations erupted on the pitch and in the stands. The long wait was finally over. Newcastle United, a club defined by passionate support and years of heartbreak, lifted their first major trophy since 1969 and their first domestic title since 1955.

A new chapter for Newcastle, more heartbreak for Slot

For Newcastle, this victory represents more than just a trophy—it signals their emergence as a force to be reckoned with. Under Eddie Howe’s leadership, the club has built a team capable of competing at the highest level. With this triumph, the Magpies have laid the foundation for what could be a new era of success. For Liverpool, it was a bitter blow. With their Champions League hopes already dashed, the Carabao Cup final was their chance to claim silverware this season. Now, their focus shifts entirely to the Premier League, where they still hold a commanding lead in the title race. As Newcastle fans celebrated long into the night, lifting the trophy that had eluded them for so long, one thing was clear—this was a moment they would never forget.