Liverpool vs Newcastle United: EFL Cup Final Preview
Liverpool and Newcastle meet at Wembley Stadium on Sunday evening to contest the first major trophy of the 2024/25 season.
Liverpool are reeling from their Champions League exit against PSG on Tuesday. This EFL Cup final is the perfect chance for Arne Slot’s side to get back on track and lift their spirits. Win at Wembley, and it’s silverware and a much-needed boost for the title chase in the remaining weeks of the season.
Newcastle United have been inconsistent of late, losing three of their last five. Eddie Howe will be desperate for his team to turn it around and win their first major trophy since 1969. A victory in the EFL Cup final could give them the confidence to push for Champions League qualification.
Team News & Tactics
Liverpool
Several injury worries for Liverpool ahead of the final. Tyler Morton (shoulder) and Joe Gomez (hamstring) are out, Conor Bradley is recovering from a knock and Trent Alexander-Arnold is a doubt after picking up an injury in midweek.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Quansah, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Jota.
Newcastle United
Newcastle United is without several key players due to injury. Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman are out with knee injuries, Lewis Hall is out with an ankle injury, and Anthony Gordon is suspended.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Pope; Livramento, Burn, Schar, Targett; Tonali, Guimaraes, Longstaff; Murphy, Isak, Barnes.
Stats
- Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 25 home games against Newcastle.
- Liverpool have scored 2+ goals in 10 of their last 11 home games against Newcastle.
- Liverpool are unbeaten in the last 6 games against Newcastle.
- Newcastle have lost 3 of their last 6 games in all competitions.
Player to Watch: Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah will be the man to watch for Liverpool to win the EFL Cup. After a poor display against PSG in the Champions League, he’ll be looking to bounce back and make a big impact. He has the experience and quality to perform on the big stage, and Liverpool will need him to be at his best at Wembley.
Liverpool vs Newcastle Prediction
Despite their Champions League exit, Liverpool are still a force to be reckoned with in cup competitions. Newcastle’s injuries could cost them dearly as they face a tough test against a Liverpool side looking to get back on track.
Liverpool 2-1 Newcastle
Liverpool vs Newcastle Live Stream
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