The 2025 EFL Cup Final between Liverpool and Newcastle United is scheduled for Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Wembley Stadium in London. The match is set to kick off at 4:30 p.m. GMT.
Liverpool's Road to the Final:
Third Round: Liverpool entered the competition in the third round due to their participation in UEFA competitions. They faced West Ham United at Anfield on September 25, 2024, and secured a convincing 5–1 victory, with goals from Diogo Jota, Mohamed Salah, and Cody Gakpo.
Fourth Round: They were drawn away to Brighton & Hove Albion and emerged victorious with a 3–1 win.
Quarter-Finals: Liverpool hosted Tottenham Hotspur and advanced with a 2–0 win.
Semi-Finals: In a two-legged tie against Fulham, Liverpool won the first leg 2–1 at Anfield and drew 1–1 at Craven Cottage, progressing to the final with a 3–2 aggregate score.
Newcastle United's Road to the Final:
Second Round: Newcastle began their campaign against Tranmere Rovers, securing a 2–1 victory.
Third Round: They faced Wimbledon at St James' Park and won 1–0, with Fabian Schär scoring the decisive goal.
Fourth Round: Newcastle hosted Chelsea and advanced with a 2–1 victory.
Quarter-Finals: They defeated Manchester United 1–0 at Old Trafford.
Semi-Finals: Newcastle faced Southampton, winning 1–0 in the first leg at St Mary's Stadium and 2–1 in the second leg at St James' Park, resulting in a 3–1 aggregate victory to reach the final.
Match Preview:
Liverpool, the defending champions, aim to secure their 11th EFL Cup title. Despite recent setbacks, including an FA Cup exit and a Champions League loss to PSG, they remain favorites due to their experience and squad depth. Newcastle United, seeking their first major trophy since 1955, are determined to end their long silverware drought. The match is anticipated to be closely contested, with Liverpool's quality potentially giving them the edge.
Fans and celebrities alike are showing support, with notable figures such as Ant & Dec spotted at Wembley, donning Newcastle-themed scarves featuring assistant manager Jason Tindall's face, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
The 2025 EFL Cup Final promises an exciting clash between two teams with contrasting histories, both eager to claim the coveted trophy.
The 2025 EFL Cup Final between Liverpool and Newcastle United is scheduled for Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Wembley Stadium in London, with kickoff at 4:30 p.m. GMT.
Team News:
Liverpool: Right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold is sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained during training, ruling him out of the final.
Newcastle United: Winger Anthony Gordon is suspended following a red card received in an FA Cup match against Brighton & Hove Albion. Additionally, defender Lewis Hall is out for the season with a foot injury, and center-back Sven Botman is unavailable due to a knee injury expected to keep him out for eight weeks.
Managerial Insights:
Liverpool's manager, Arne Slot, has been lauded for his calm and strategic approach, drawing comparisons to artificial intelligence for his calculated management style. Slot's ability to stay steps ahead tactically has been pivotal in Liverpool's successful season.
Former player Craig Bellamy has praised Slot's high-energy personality and enthusiasm, noting his seamless transition into the role and positive impact on the team.
Football Update...(EFL Final Tonight)