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Get ready for an epic showdown as Liverpool and Newcastle go head-to-head in the EFL Cup Final! Both teams are itching to lift that trophy, so expect a fierce battle on Sunday. After an exciting journey in the competition, each side knows that winning isn’t just about the silverware – it’s about pride and building momentum for the rest of the season!
For Liverpool, the EFL Cup is another shot at snagging some major silverware and boosting their status as one of England’s top teams. Manager Arne Slot’s squad is riding high after recent cup wins and sees this final as a chance to show off their signature high pressing and dynamic attack.
For Newcastle, this final is a golden opportunity to add a trophy to their growing collection. Under Eddie Howe’s leadership, the Magpies have built a solid reputation with a mix of tough defense and quick counter-attacks. Historically, the two clubs have faced off 25 times in cup competitions, with Liverpool slightly ahead at 15 wins to Newcastle’s 7 (plus 3 draws), but right now, it looks like it’ll be a close match!
Liverpool:
The Reds have had a bit of a rollercoaster season in the league, but they’re really shining in the cup competitions! Their last match was a solid 2-0 win over Chelsea in the quarterfinals, showing off their knack for controlling knockout games. While key players like Salah and Virgil are expected to be good to go, a few squad members are still dealing with minor injuries, with Trent Alexander-Arnold being the biggest concern.
Newcastle:
Newcastle is having a great season, with some awesome performances in knockout matches! A recent win against Nottingham Forest really showed their grit, even against tough opponents. Manager Eddie Howe’s squad has been impressive with their solid defense and quick counterattacks, but they’ll be missing a couple of players due to injuries, including Anthony Gordon, who’s suspended after that red card in the FA Cup loss to Brighton.
Liverpool:
Mohamed Salah: The Egyptian forward remains a constant threat with his pace, skill, and knack for finding the back of the net. His influence on the game will be critical in breaking down Newcastle’s defensive setup.
Cody Gakpo: Known for his clinical finishing and aerial ability, Gakpo’s role as a striker could be the difference in a tightly contested final.
Virgil van Dijk: While being a captain, Virgil’s defensive acumen and ability to recycle possession will help Liverpool maintain balance and control.
Newcastle:
Callum Wilson: The prolific striker leads Newcastle’s attacking charge. Wilson’s ability to hold up play and his precise finishing could prove decisive against Liverpool’s backline.
Joe Willock: With his explosive dribbling and creativity in the midfield, Willock can trouble Liverpool’s full-backs and create key chances on the break.
Fabian Schär: A rock at the back, Schär’s leadership and aerial prowess will be pivotal in organizing Newcastle’s defense against Liverpool’s offensive pressure.
Liverpool:
Slot’s side is likely to employ a 4-3-3 formation that focuses on high pressing, quick transitions, and fluid attacking movements considering Wednesday’s tactical failure.
Key Tactical Points:
High Press & Quick Transitions: Liverpool will look to disrupt Newcastle’s build-up with relentless pressing and swiftly transition to attack when possession is regained.
Midfield Control: Mac Allister will need to keep the midfield compact, ensuring that Newcastle’s counter-attacks are kept in check.
Expected Lineup: Alisson; Tsimikas, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Andrew Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Mohamed Salah, Gakpo, Diogo Jota.
Newcastle:
Howe’s Magpies are expected to line up in a disciplined 4-2-3-1 formation that emphasizes structure and swift counter-attacks.
Key Tactical Points:
Defensive Solidity: Newcastle’s backline, led by Fabian Schär, will be tasked with absorbing Liverpool’s pressure and denying space in dangerous areas.
Counter-Attacking Threat: With the pace of Willock and the clinical finishing of Callum Wilson, Newcastle will look to hit Liverpool on the break.
Expected Lineup: Pope; Burn, Schär, Hall, Lewis, Tonali, Guimaraes, Almirón; Willock, Murphy, Wilson.
Experts predict a closely fought final. Although both teams possess attacking firepower, Liverpool’s experience and Newcastle’s Gordon absence may give them a slight edge. A narrow 2-1 victory for the Reds appears probable, with Mohamed Salah expected to provide the crucial breakthrough.
Match Result:
Over/Under 2.5 Goals:
Given Liverpool’s attacking prowess and the familiarity of playing at Wembley, backing a Liverpool win at 4/6 offers promising value. In addition, considering the typically tight nature of cup finals, an under 3.5 goals bet at 1/2 may provide a safer return.
A 2-1 victory for Liverpool is the predicted outcome.
Value bets:
Both teams have shown a propensity for low-scoring affairs in knockout fixtures, suggesting a match with limited goal-scoring opportunities. The under 3.5 goals market at 1/2 is in line with recent trends in similar high-stakes matches.
Considering Newcastle’s counter-attacking threat paired with Liverpool’s potent forward line, the possibility of both teams finding the net is high. Betting on both teams to score (BTTS – Yes) at 17/25 offers an appealing option for risk-tolerant punters.
Taking into account Liverpool’s slight edge, a Liverpool -0.5 handicap bet at 31/50 could be a smart wager. Additionally, with the high tension typical of a cup final, betting on Liverpool to win the cup at 33/100 looks like a safe bet.
Velobet: Offers a 150% welcome bonus for new users and Liverpool to win @ 3/5.
Cosmobet: Features a 20% cashback promo along with an attractive Liverpool win + BTTS (Yes) @ 97/50.
Kick-off is set for 4:30 PM UK time. Live Carabao Cup football on TV (formerly the EFL Cup, traditionally the League Cup) is shown in the UK by Sky Sports. ITV will simulcast the final live in the 24/25 season.
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