Liverpool vs Newcastle: Carabao Cup Final Preview, Injury Updates & Key Players to Watch

Liverpool are scheduled to face Newcastle United in the eagerly anticipated Carabao Cup final 2025 at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, March 16, 2025, with kick-off at 4:30 PM GMT. The Reds, in search of their 11th EFL Cup win, will hope to bounce back from their recent Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). In contrast, Newcastle United, managed by Eddie Howe, will hope to end their trophy drought and lift their first slice of meaningful silverware since 1969. With both sides suffering critical injuries, it's going to come down to tactics and depth in the squads. All you require to know here includes recent injury updates, predicted lineups, star signings, predictions on the match, and where you can catch it all live.

Liverpool's Champions League Disappointment

Liverpool suffered a tragic Champions League Round of 16 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain early in the week. A 1-0 defeat at Anfield levelled the aggregate, forcing the tie into penalties. Unfortunately for them, misses by Darwin Núñez and Curtis Jones packed Liverpool off from Europe's elite tournament.

With European football now out of the window, manager Arne Slot and his men can now fully focus on domestic competition. Winning the Carabao Cup would be the perfect solution to their Champions League disappointment and provide much-needed impetus as they strive for the Premier League title.

Liverpool Injury News: Alexander-Arnold Missing, Quansah Takes Step Up

One of Liverpool's primary concerns heading into the final is the injury to Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was substituted against PSG due to a knee injury. The right-back has been ruled out, and with Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez injured as well, manager Arne Slot has limited options at right-back.

This would have Jarell Quansah starting in an unfamiliar position. Although, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has complete faith in the 20-year-old defender:

"If Jarell plays right-back, then he has to do as best as he can. He has shown tonight that he can do it." – Van Dijk (Anfield Watch)

Liverpool's Expected Starting XI vs Newcastle

Formation: 4-3-3

Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker

Defenders: Jarell Quansah, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Andy Robertson
Midfielders: Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch

Forwards: Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz

Newcastle United Injury News: Sven Botman & Lewis Hall Ruled Out

Newcastle United also have their own injury concerns heading into the Carabao Cup final. Sven Botman is out after knee surgery, and Lewis Hall has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a foot injury. In addition, winger Anthony Gordon is suspended after receiving a red card in the FA Cup against Brighton.

But there is good news for Newcastle supporters, as Alexander Isak has announced he is fit despite speculation of an injury setback. (The Times)

Newcastle's Predicted Starting XI against Liverpool

Formation: 4-3-3

Goalkeeper: Nick Pope

Defenders: Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schär, Jamaal Lascelles, Dan Burn
Midfielders: Bruno Guimarães, Joelinton, Sean Longstaff

Forwards: Miguel Almirón, Alexander Isak, Callum Wilson

Liverpool vs Newcastle: Head-to-Head Stats

Liverpool and Newcastle have played against each other 185 times across all competitions.

Liverpool wins: 91
Newcastle wins: 50
Draws: 44
Their most recent Premier League match ended in a 4-2 win for Liverpool at St. James' Park, with Mohamed Salah scoring two goals.

Last 5 meetings:

✅ Liverpool 4-2 Newcastle
✅ Liverpool 3-1 Newcastle
✅ Newcastle 1-2 Liverpool
✅ Liverpool 2-0 Newcastle
✅ Newcastle 0-1 Liverpool
Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 15 matches against Newcastle in all competitions.

Tactical Battle: Key Players to Watch

Liverpool: Mohamed Salah

The Egyptian King is Liverpool's top scorer in the season with 18 goals in total competitions. His pace, finishing, and experience in big games make him an impact player.

Newcastle: Alexander Isak

The Swedish attacker has been Newcastle's most explosive forward, having scored 14 goals this season. His movement and finishing will be critical against Liverpool's high defensive line.

Match Prediction: Who Will Win the Carabao Cup Final?

Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Newcastle

Liverpool's depth and experience playing finals hold them in good stead.
Newcastle defensive injuries might make them open to attack.
Mohamed Salah's goal-scoring streak may prove to be the difference-maker.
Betting odds:
Liverpool win: 1.90
Newcastle win: 3.50
Draw (90 minutes): 3.80

(Odds via Sky Bet)

How to Watch Liverpool vs Newcastle Live

TV & Live Streaming Options

Sky Sports Main Event (UK)
Sky Go App (UK)
ITV1 & ITVX (UK – Possible Free-to-Air Coverage)
NBC Sports (USA)
DAZN (Canada & Germany)
SuperSport (South Africa)

- talkSPORT (Live Radio Commentary) (talksport.com)

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Carabao Cup final promises to be a thrilling experience between Newcastle United and Liverpool. Liverpool will look to win their first honor with Arne Slot in charge, while Newcastle will fight to end their trophy drought. With injuries, tactical battles, and superstars set to dominate the headlines, Wembley will host an exhilarating spectacle.

Who do you think will lift the trophy? Tell us your tips below!