Liverpool FC’s history in the EFL Cup is filled with dramatic moments, legendary performances, and unforgettable triumphs.
From their first win in 1981 to their record-breaking 2022, to being
current holders, the Reds have consistently delivered magic in the competition.
As they continue their journey to Wembley against Newcastle on Sunday 16th March, which of these finals is your favourite so far? Here’s a look at some of the most iconic EFL Cup final
moments in Liverpool’s history…
Liverpool’s First League Cup Triumph – 1981
Final: Liverpool 2-1 West Ham United (Replay)
Liverpool’s dominance in the League Cup began in 1981, when they won their first title against West Ham. After a 1-1 draw at Wembley, the final went to a replay at Villa Park.
Kenny Dalglish and Alan Hansen were instrumental as Liverpool won 2-1, with goals from Dalglish and a deflected shot by Hansen sealing their victory. This was the start of Liverpool’s love affair with the competition.
Four in a Row – 1981 to 1984
Liverpool became the first team to win four consecutive League Cups, a record that still stands.
Their victories included thrilling wins over Tottenham Hotspur (1982), Manchester United (1983), and a dramatic extra-time triumph over Everton (1984), where Graeme Souness scored
the winner.
This era cemented Liverpool as the dominant force in English football.
The Robbie Fowler Show – 1995
Final: Liverpool 2-1 Bolton Wanderers
Liverpool returned to EFL Cup glory in 1995, thanks to a stunning performance from Robbie Fowler.
The young striker scored twice, opening the score line in the first half with a clinical finish, latching onto a perfectly weighted pass from Steve McManaman before firing low past Keith Branagan.
Fowler then doubled the lead early in the second half with a powerful strike. Although Alan Thompson pulled a goal back, Liverpool held a 2-1 win over Bolton Wanderers.
This victory was especially significant as it marked the club’s first major trophy since 1990.
The Owen & Gerrard Era Begins – 2001
Final: Liverpool 1-1 Birmingham City (Liverpool won on penalties, 5-4)
The 2001 final was a crucial moment in Liverpool’s history. It was the first trophy of their famous treble-winning season under the late great Gérard Houllier. Liverpool took the lead through Robbie Fowler’s spectacular volley, but Birmingham equalised with a late penalty.
In the shootout the Reds converted all five of their spotkicks, Gary McAllister, known for his composure confidently struck the first penalty past Ian Bennett, Nick Barmby followed, with Christian Ziege, Jamie Carragher and finally Robbie Fowler sealing the victory securing a 5-4 win.
The victory gave Liverpool their first cup of the new millennium, and their sixth League Cup Trophy.
The Thriller Against Manchester United – 2003
Final: Liverpool 2-0 Manchester United
Liverpool faced their fierce rivals Manchester United in the 2003 final, producing one of their most memorable victories at the Millennium Stadium.
Steven Gerrard put the Reds ahead in the first half with a long-range powerful strike that deflected off David Beckham, leaving Fabien Barthez helpless as the ball flew into the net.
Michael Owen sealed the win with a late goal, his renowned trademark finish, racing onto a through ball from Dietmar Hamann before coolly slotting past Barthez, securing Liverpool’s seventh League Cup title.
The victory was particularly sweet as it came against their biggest rivals in a hard-fought final.
Penalty Drama at Cardiff – 2005
Final: Liverpool 2-3 Chelsea (AET)
Although Liverpool lost the 2005 final to Chelsea, the match remains iconic for its intensity. John Arne Riise scored Liverpool’s fastest-ever cup final goal (45 seconds), but Chelsea equalised
late through Steven Gerrard’s unfortunate own goal.
Extra time saw Chelsea pull away, but Antonio Núñez’s goal made it a thrilling contest. Despite the defeat, it was a memorable battle that showcased Liverpool’s fighting spirit.
The Return to Glory Years – 2012
Final: Liverpool 2-2 Cardiff City (Liverpool won on penalties, 3-2)
Liverpool’s first trophy in six years came in dramatic fashion in 2012. Facing Cardiff City, the Reds struggled to break down their determined opposition. Goals from Martin Škrtel and Dirk
Kuyt were canceled out, forcing a penalty shootout.
Despite misses from Steven Gerrard and Charlie Adam, goalkeeper Pepe Reina’s heroics helped Liverpool win 3-2 in the shootout.
This victory marked Liverpool’s eighth League Cup title, reaffirming their dominance in the
competition.
The Record-Breaking Ninth Title – 2022
Final: Liverpool 0-0 Chelsea (Liverpool won on penalties, 11-10)
The 2022 EFL Cup final against Chelsea was an instant classic. After a tense 120 minutes with
no goals, the final went to a dramatic penalty shootout.
The Reds were flawless from the spot. Every outfield player scored, with James Milner confidently converting the first pen, followed by
successful strikes from Fabinho, Van Dijk’s iconic stone cold pen, Trent Alexander Arnold, Salah, Jota, Origi, Robertson, Elliott, and Konate.
With the shootout reaching sudden death, Caoimhin Kelleher stepped up coolly slotting his pen past Kepa Arrizabalaga, moments later Kepa blazed his pen over the bar, sealing Liverpool’s record ninth EFL Cup in thrilling fashion.
Klopp’s Young Guns Shine – 2024
Final: Liverpool 1-0 Chelsea (AET)
Liverpool faced Chelsea again in the 2024 final at Wembley, and despite an injury-hit squad, they produced a stunning display.
Liverpool secured a dramatic 1-0 victory after extra time, with Van Dijk scoring the decisive goal in the 118th minute.
The Reds’ young players stepped up amid an injury crisis, showing resilience and determination.
Van Dijk thought he had given Liverpool the lead in the second half, but his header was ruled out by VAR for offside.
As the game edged towards another penalty shootout, Van Dijk rose to meet Tsimikas’ corner, powering a header past Petrovic to win Liverpool a record-extending
10th EFL Cup.
Jürgen Klopp’s emotional reaction highlighted the significance of the victory, as it marked the final piece of silverware in his glorious tenure as the Reds manager.
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