Newcastle’s road to the 2025 Carabao Cup final

Newcastle United have marched to the 2025 Carabao Cup final after an impressive run, dispatching strong opponents along the way. Eddie Howe’s men showcased resilience, tactical discipline, and attacking brilliance to set up a final showdown with Liverpool at Wembley. Here's how the Magpies secured their place in the final.

Second round: surviving a scare at Nottingham Forest

28/08/24 – Nottingham Forest 1–1 (P) Newcastle United

Newcastle’s Carabao Cup journey nearly ended before it truly began. Facing Nottingham Forest away, Joe Willock gave the Magpies a dream start with a goal in the opening minute. However, Jota Silva equalized for Forest in the second half, sending the tie to penalties. Newcastle held their nerve in the shootout, advancing to the next round.

Third round: narrow victory over AFC Wimbledon

01/10/24 – Newcastle United 1–0 AFC Wimbledon

A much-changed Newcastle side struggled to break down League One opponents AFC Wimbledon at St. James’ Park. The breakthrough finally came in first-half stoppage time when Fabian Schär converted a penalty. The Magpies controlled possession but failed to add to their lead, grinding out a 1-0 win to progress.

Fourth round: dominating Chelsea at home

30/10/24 – Newcastle United 2–0 Chelsea

Newcastle stepped up their game in the fourth round, delivering an assured performance against Premier League rivals Chelsea. Alexander Isak opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, and an own goal from Axel Disasi shortly after put the Magpies in full control. Chelsea failed to respond as Newcastle’s solid defense saw them through to the quarterfinals.

Quarterfinal: taking down Brentford

18/12/24 – Newcastle United 3–1 Brentford

Eddie Howe’s side continued their impressive form with a commanding 3-1 victory over Brentford. Sandro Tonali stole the show with a brace, scoring in the 9th and 43rd minutes to give Newcastle a strong lead. Fabian Schär added a third in the second half before Yoane Wissa netted a late consolation goal for Brentford. With another convincing win, Newcastle booked a place in the semifinals.

Semifinal first leg: a statement win at Arsenal

07/01/25 – Arsenal 0–2 Newcastle United

Newcastle put one foot in the final with a massive away victory at the Emirates Stadium. Despite Arsenal dominating possession, the Magpies were clinical in front of goal. Isak struck in the 37th minute, and Anthony Gordon doubled the lead shortly after halftime to give Newcastle a commanding advantage heading into the second leg.

Semifinal second leg: sealing the final spot at St. James’ Park

05/02/25 – Newcastle United 2–0 Arsenal

With a two-goal cushion, Newcastle ensured there was no comeback from Arsenal in the return leg. A dominant display saw Jacob Murphy open the scoring in the 19th minute before Gordon sealed the win in the 52nd minute. A 4-0 aggregate triumph confirmed Newcastle’s place in the Carabao Cup final for the second time in three seasons.

Wembley awaits

Newcastle will now face Liverpool in the final on March 16 at Wembley Stadium. The Magpies are aiming to lift their first domestic trophy since 1955, while Liverpool seek their 10th Carabao Cup title. With Newcastle’s solid defense and attacking firepower, fans will be hopeful that this could be the year their long wait for silverware finally comes to an end. One last challenge remains, and the stage is set for a thrilling finale.