Cody Gakpo is no stranger to cup final heroics, as Liverpool prepares to face Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley this today.
The Dutch forward is eager to add another chapter to his trophy-laden career.
Gakpo’s previous experience in a cup final came when he scored the decisive goal for PSV Eindhoven in the 2021-22 KNVB Cup final against AFC Ajax, giving his former club a historic victory.
Now, with his sights set on a second League Cup medal, the No.18 is determined to bring that same sense of pride and glory to Liverpool.
Having played a crucial role in Liverpool’s memorable Carabao Cup triumph last season, Gakpo’s hunger for silverware is stronger than ever.
Reflecting on the possibility of scoring in a final again, he told Liverpoolfc.com:
“I did it once at PSV, so hopefully I can do it again at Liverpool. It’s an amazing feeling—maybe the best feeling you can have as an attacking player, to score at that moment in a final.”
Gakpo’s experience in last season’s final, when Virgil van Dijk scored the last-minute winner against Chelsea, is still fresh in his mind.
“That was a beautiful moment, and I think everybody wants to relive that again,”
The forward is determined to help his side win their first trophy of the season, kickstarting what he hopes will be a successful campaign.
🗣️ Cody Gakpo on the cup final:
"It could be our first trophy of the season, so I think we are very eager to win. Hopefully that would be the beginning of the end to a very beautiful season." pic.twitter.com/wP6lRHBe6q
— Anything Liverpool (@AnythingLFC_) March 15, 2025
What Cody Gakpo revealed about Arne Slot’s tactical shift
Gakpo has been instrumental in Liverpool’s run to the Carabao Cup final this season, scoring five goals in the competition, more than any other player on the team. His consistent performances have seen him start every tie, and his contributions have been vital to their progress.
Under the guidance of new coach Arne Slot, Gakpo has primarily operated in his natural left-wing position, a tactical shift that has paid off. Gakpo credits Slot’s arrival for his improved form:
“The first thing he did was change my position slightly, so back to the left. That was maybe a small change on paper, but for me it was a big change.”
Slot’s focus on helping Gakpo develop his game further, both in terms of scoring and assisting, has been a key factor in the attacker’s growth. Gakpo acknowledges the manager’s impact on his development, stating,
“He’s helping me a lot. The manager and the staff try to help everybody, and I think everybody can see a lot of players are developing well.”
As Gakpo continues to shine on the pitch, Liverpool’s ambitions for another League Cup triumph grow stronger.
As the Reds prepare for the final against Newcastle, who are hunting their first major domestic trophy since 1955, Gakpo remains focused on the challenge ahead. Liverpool recently defeated Eddie Howe’s side 2-0 in a Premier League encounter, but Gakpo is fully aware of the danger Newcastle present.
He highlighted the attacking threat of striker Alexander Isak and the overall quality of the opposition:
“They are a very good team—strong midfield, solid in the back, and dangerous going forward.”
Gakpo is hopeful that Liverpool can emerge victorious, securing their 11th League Cup title and adding to the club’s growing trophy collection.
Also read: Liverpool target Alexander Isak comments on his future.
Sai Akshay
I'm a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.