The 2024-25 season’s first major domestic trophy is on the line this Sunday as Liverpool and Newcastle face off in the Carabao Cup final.
With the defending champions, Liverpool, eager to secure their 11th League Cup title and give manager Arne Slot his first major trophy in his debut season, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Meanwhile, Newcastle, who haven’t claimed a domestic trophy since their 1955 FA Cup win, are looking to end a long 70-year drought.
The Magpies were close last year, losing in the EFL Cup final to Manchester United, but they’ll be determined to go one step further this time around.
Missing Key Players Ahead of the Final
Both sides will be dealing with significant injuries and absences heading into this crucial match.
For Newcastle, manager Eddie Howe will be without key defenders Sven Botman and Lewis Hall, with the latter also missing due to injury.
Adding to their woes, Anthony Gordon will be unavailable after receiving a red card in their FA Cup defeat to Brighton.
On the other side, Liverpool will also have to make do without their star right-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and there are concerns over Ibrahima Konate after both players limped off during Liverpool’s Champions League exit against PSG earlier this week.
This could force a reshuffle in Liverpool’s defense, with players like Jarell Quansah or Wataru Endo stepping in.
Goalkeepers: Alisson and Dubravka Set for Key Roles
When it comes to goalkeepers, there’s little doubt that Liverpool’s Alisson will start.
The Brazilian is among the world’s best and has kept eight clean sheets in the Premier League this season, making him a crucial figure in Liverpool’s defensive setup.
On Newcastle’s side, there’s uncertainty over who will start in goal.
Martin Dubravka has impressed in Nick Pope’s absence, but Pope’s recent performances have raised questions.
With Dubravka in great form, he might be the one to start for the Magpies in this crucial final.
Full Backs: Trippier and Robertson in Key Roles
At right-back, Kieran Trippier will continue in his preferred role for Newcastle, despite struggling for regular first-team football due to the rise of Tino Livramento.
Livramento’s injury means Trippier will have to step up in this final.
Liverpool faces their own issues at right-back, with both Alexander-Arnold and Conor Bradley out.
Jarell Quansah could fill in, and this presents a potential weak point for Newcastle to exploit.
On the left, Liverpool’s Andy Robertson remains one of their most reliable performers.
With seven seasons under his belt at Anfield, Robertson’s experience and consistency make him an essential part of the team.
This could be one of his final opportunities to add another trophy to his collection before Liverpool possibly makes changes to their squad in the summer.
Centre Backs: Van Dijk and Schar Bring Leadership
For Liverpool, Virgil van Dijk remains the bedrock of their defense.
A towering presence with excellent leadership skills, van Dijk has been crucial to Liverpool’s success this season, boasting 12 clean sheets in the Premier League so far.
He will be hoping to lift his third EFL Cup trophy on Sunday.
At Newcastle, Fabian Schar has been more consistent than his defensive partner, Dan Burn, and looks set to start in the final.
Schar’s solid defensive work and ability to contribute offensively with long-range shots will be vital for the Magpies.
Burn has struggled against quick, technical players, and that could be problematic when facing Liverpool’s attacking talents.
Midfield: Tonali, Mac Allister, and Guimaraes Key to Control
The midfield battle will be crucial, with both teams boasting exceptional trios.
For Newcastle, Sandro Tonali has adapted his game this season to operate as the defensive anchor between Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes.
His return from a betting ban has been a turning point for the Magpies, and he’ll be looking to dominate the midfield at Wembley.
On Liverpool’s side, Alexis Mac Allister has been outstanding this season, providing both defensive stability and creative flair.
He’s formed an excellent partnership with Ryan Gravenberch, contributing both in defense and attack.
Mac Allister ranks highly in tackles and blocks, demonstrating his all-round quality.
Completing the midfield trio is Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes, who has been indispensable for the Magpies.
His relentless energy, leadership, and ability to drive the team forward make him a key player in this final.
Guimaraes’ presence will be crucial in preventing Liverpool from taking control of the game.
Wings and Striker: Salah, Diaz, and Isak Set to Shine
On the wings, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah is simply in a league of his own.
The Egyptian forward has been in sensational form, with 27 goals and 17 assists in the Premier League this season.
Salah will be looking to bounce back after a rare off performance in the Champions League and secure his first major trophy under manager Arne Slot.
Luis Diaz, on the other hand, may not have the same goal involvement as Salah, but his speed, skill, and ability to stretch defenses make him a constant threat.
He’ll be tasked with taking on Newcastle’s Kieran Trippier, and his direct style will cause problems for the Magpies’ defense.
Finally, Newcastle’s Alexander Isak will be the focal point of their attack.
The Swedish striker is on course to surpass his previous best goal tally and will be looking to lead his team to victory.
If Liverpool’s defense is missing key players, Isak could prove to be a handful for whoever steps in at center-back.
Conclusion: The Carabao Cup Final Will Be a Clash of Titans
With key players missing on both sides, this Carabao Cup final promises to be an intense and unpredictable match.
Both teams have plenty to play for, with Liverpool aiming for their 11th title and Newcastle desperate to end their long trophy drought.
With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging stars, Sunday’s final will undoubtedly be one to remember.