This Sunday, we are treated to a Cup Final spectacle—the first chance for silverware this season. With one team looking to cement their dominance and the other desperate to make history, Wembley Stadium takes centre stage for what promises to be a thrilling showdown. Here’s our take on the game, along with a betting suggestion for you to consider.
LIVERPOOL v NEWCASTLE UNITED – Click here to bet
Liverpool’s hopes of a historic treble came to a crushing end on Tuesday night as they bowed out of the Champions League on penalties. However, with a commanding 15-point lead at the top of the Premier League, their domestic dominance remains unchallenged. Now, their focus shifts to Wembley, where they aim to extend their record as the League Cup’s most successful club by securing an 11th title.
The Reds booked their place in Sunday’s final with a dominant 4-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the second leg of the semi-finals, overturning a 1-0 first-leg defeat to progress 4-1 on aggregate. For Arne Slot, this represents a golden opportunity to claim his first piece of silverware since succeeding Jürgen Klopp in the summer—potentially the first of many as he looks to forge his own legacy at Anfield.
Heading into the final, Liverpool find themselves in a stronger position than their opponents, with far fewer injury concerns compared to Newcastle United. After their European disappointment against Paris Saint-Germain, the Reds are well-positioned to bounce back with a statement performance at Wembley.
Standing in their way, however, is a Newcastle United side determined to finally end their League Cup heartbreak. The Magpies have twice reached the final but fallen short on both occasions, most recently suffering a 2-0 defeat to Manchester United in 2023. This season, however, they have looked far more convincing, dismantling Arsenal 4-0 on aggregate in the semi-finals with clinical 2-0 victories both home and away.
With European qualification firmly within reach—currently sitting sixth in the Premier League after Monday’s 1-0 win away to West Ham—Newcastle are gaining momentum as the season enters its decisive phase. However, injuries threaten to derail their ambitions, with key players such as Lewis Hall (ankle), Jamaal Lascelles (knee), and Sven Botman (knee) sidelined, while Anthony Gordon is suspended for the final.
Despite these setbacks, Eddie Howe will look to Alexander Isak to provide the firepower. The Swedish striker has been in prolific form, netting 22 goals across all competitions. If Newcastle are to finally lift the League Cup, Isak will need to rise to the occasion and ensure they avoid the heartbreak of a third consecutive runners-up finish.
Head-to-Head
Liverpool have dominated recent encounters against Newcastle United, winning seven of their last eight meetings, including a 2-0 victory at Anfield. However, their earlier clash this season at St. James’ Park was a thrilling contest, ending in a fiercely contested 3-3 draw.
Betting
Liverpool 13/20
Draw 16/5
Newcastle United 4/1
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Verdict
Liverpool’s Champions League exit on Tuesday may have taken a toll, and while some believe it will fuel their determination, I remain unconvinced. Newcastle may struggle historically against the Reds, but they have consistently defied expectations this season. With enough quality on the pitch, the Magpies have what it takes to potentially push this final to the limit by avoiding defeat in normal time.
Suggested Bet: Full Time Result – Draw at 16/5
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Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
