Liverpool and Newcastle United are set to face off in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley.
It is the first major trophy of the season, and both teams have plenty at stake.
For Liverpool, it is a chance to secure silverware in Arne Slot’s first season.
For Newcastle, it is an opportunity to end a long wait for domestic success.
The Reds head into the final as defending champions.
They know what it takes to win this competition.
Meanwhile, Newcastle have been strong in cup matches in recent years and will be looking to go one step further after losing in the final two years ago.
With both teams in good form, it promises to be a competitive game.
But history and recent performances provide some key insights into what could happen.
Liverpool vs Newcastle United stats ahead of Carabao Cup final
Liverpool have a strong history in this competition.
This is their 15th League Cup final, five more than any other club.
They have won the trophy 10 times, the most of any team.
If they win on Sunday, they will have 19 domestic cup trophies, equaling Manchester United’s record.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have never won the League Cup.
This is only their third appearance in the final, after losing in 1976 and 2023.
They also have a poor record at Wembley, losing their last nine games at the stadium.
Liverpool’s attack has been sharp in this year’s competition.
They have scored 14 goals in five matches, their highest since 2000-01.
Cody Gakpo has been their top scorer, netting nine goals in 11 League Cup appearances since his debut.
His five goals this season are the most by a Liverpool player in a single campaign since Robbie Fowler in 2000-01.
Mohamed Salah also has a strong record against Newcastle.
He has been directly involved in 18 goals in 16 appearances against them (10 goals, 8 assists).
However, at Wembley, his form is not as strong.
He has scored just one goal in seven appearances, with a shot conversion rate of only 4%.
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak could be a threat.
He has contributed to four goals in five games against Liverpool (3 goals, 1 assist), including scoring and assisting in their last meeting in December.
Liverpool have history on their side.
The last four holders of the League Cup to reach the final have gone on to win it.
If they continue that trend, they will lift the trophy once again.
Read more: Eddie Howe reveals advantage ahead of Wembley: “Hopefully that helps us”
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