Newcastle United will head to Wembley Stadium as underdogs for the 2025 Carabao Cup final against Liverpool.
Eddie Howe and his Newcastle United side have a chance to end a 70-year wait for a trophy on Sunday afternoon.
Up against a Liverpool side that has dominated the Premier League this season, it will be no easy task. and Newcastle’s record at Wembley doesn’t offer much hope to Toon fans.
But Newcastle have improved since the 2023 final when they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Manchester United at Wembley.
Howe has changed Newcastle’s approach to the final and even with several injuries and suspensions, a strong Newcastle side will take to the Wembley pitch.
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Eddie Howe told to avoid negative tactics in Carabao Cup final
In the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup, Howe stunned Arsenal tactically by playing a three-at-the-back formation and instructing his side to defend deep and counter-attack.
However, just weeks later, Howe’s tactics against Liverpool were questioned when he decided to play Anthony Gordon up front alongside Callum Wilson.
With Gordon suspended after his red card, there is no chance of that tactic being repeated. Former Newcastle star Chris Waddle has urged Howe to stick to what his side does best.
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Speaking to The Sun, Waddle said: “I’d love to see Newcastle end their hoodoo and I hope they do it with the fearless, exciting attacking style the club is famous for.
“For me, they need to be bold because Newcastle are always at their best on front foot and when they’ve tried alternative ways which are less exciting it’s not suited them.
“That’s been the case right down the years and when managers have tried to apply the brakes and exercise more caution, more often than not it’s backfired.
“So, Newcastle will have to burst out of the blocks and press Liverpool from the off to try to catch them cold, get ahead early and work their socks off to stay there.
“And that will get the fans plenty to shout about because that front-foot, high tempo approach is what they want to watch.
“The last thing they like to see a Newcastle team park the bus at Wembley because they know the script.”
Rafa Benitez advice to Eddie Howe for Carabao Cup final
Howe is predicted to play 4-3-3 at Wembley and stick to Newcastle’s strengths. Newcastle’s strongest position is midfield, and with Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton all available – they could play a major role in deciding the result.
Former Toon boss Rafa Benitez said Newcastle deserve to beat Liverpool on Sunday, and like Waddle he has had his say on what tactics should be used.
Benitez offered Howe a game plan, saying: “Newcastle United can play with intensity from the first minute and if they are right at the beginning, they can get results.
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“They have shown during the season. When they start on the front foot and score goals, normally, they win. Liverpool are a difficult opponent, but it’s a final. It won’t be easy, but they will have chances.”
It seems everyone is in agreement that Newcastle cannot afford to sit back and play passively against this Liverpool side.