Newcastle United’s decades-long wait for a major domestic trophy finally came to an end as they edged out holders Liverpool 2-1 in a gripping Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.
The Magpies, fueled by their determination to shatter the curse, came out swinging, pinning Liverpool back with their high-pressing game.
Eddie Howe’s men were on the front foot from the get-go, and their relentless pressure paid off in the 45th minute when Dan Burn, a boyhood Newcastle fan, rose above the Liverpool defense to head home the opener.
The Toon Army’s dream start to the second half saw talisman Alexander Isak conjure up a sublime finish, leaving Liverpool’s rearguard in tatters.
This strike proved to be the decisive blow, as Newcastle held on to claim their first major domestic trophy since the 1955 FA Cup.
Liverpool, who had been lackluster throughout, managed to pull one back through new recruit Federico Chiesa, but it was too little, too late.
The Reds’ midweek Champions League disappointment at the hands of PSG seemed to have taken its toll, as they struggled to find their rhythm.
Newcastle’s dominant display was reflected in the stats, with the Magpies racking up 14 shots, six of which were on target, compared to Liverpool’s paltry five shots, with only two testing the goalkeeper.
This triumph marked a significant milestone for Newcastle, who had suffered five consecutive final defeats, including last year’s 2-0 loss to Manchester United in the same competition.
Manager Eddie Howe acknowledged the weight of history, stating, “We were well aware of the history and we wanted to do the club proud. We wanted to score, we wanted to perform and we wanted to win. Eddie Howe via Sky Sports
As the Newcastle players basked in the glory of their triumph, Alexander Isak hinted that this was just the beginning, saying, “This is really just the start. We will see more from the fans and what it means for the people when we get back to Newcastle. We are all aware of how long it’s been for the fans without a trophy.”
With their confidence soaring, Newcastle will now turn their attention to their next challenge – a tricky home encounter against a stubborn Brentford side after the international window as they bid to secure a Champions League spot.
