As Liverpool and Newcastle United prepare to battle for the EFL Cup trophy at Wembley, fans are eager to witness another memorable showdown. Over the years, the competition has delivered some of the most thrilling and dramatic finals in English football history. Here’s a look at five of the greatest ever EFL Cup finals.
In 1967, Queens Park Rangers made history by becoming the first third-tier side to lift the trophy. Facing defending champions West Bromwich Albion, QPR found themselves 2-0 down at half-time. However, a stunning second-half comeback saw Roger Morgan and Rodney Marsh draw the Hoops level before Mike Lazarus netted an 81st-minute winner to complete one of the most remarkable turnarounds in EFL Cup history.
The 1977 final between Aston Villa and Everton was one of the most physically demanding in the competition’s history. After a goalless draw at Wembley and a 1-1 tie in the first replay, the two sides clashed again at Old Trafford. In a thrilling encounter, Brian Little’s extra-time goal sealed a 3-2 victory for Villa, who secured the trophy after 330 minutes of football across three matches.
Luton Town’s triumph over Arsenal in 1988 is remembered as one of the biggest upsets in EFL Cup history. Brian Stein gave Luton an early lead before Arsenal struck twice in the second half. However, Nigel Winterburn’s missed penalty proved costly, as Danny Wilson equalised in the 82nd minute before Stein scored a dramatic late winner to hand Luton their first major trophy.
The 2005 final between Chelsea and Liverpool was another classic. John Arne Riise’s goal after just 44 seconds put Liverpool ahead, but Steven Gerrard’s own goal in the 79th minute took the game to extra time. Chelsea capitalized with goals from Didier Drogba and Mateja Kezman, while Antonio Nunez’s late header wasn’t enough to prevent Jose Mourinho from lifting his first trophy as Chelsea manager.
From historic comebacks to dramatic late winners, these unforgettable finals have helped shape the rich history of the EFL Cup. Will this weekend’s clash between Liverpool and Newcastle add another classic to the list?
In 2011, Birmingham City stunned Arsenal to secure their first major trophy in nearly five decades. Nikola Zigic gave Birmingham the lead before Robin van Persie equalised for the Gunners. With extra time looming, a mix-up between Wojciech Szczesny and Laurent Koscielny gifted Obafemi Martins the winning goal in the 89th minute, sending the Birmingham fans into ecstasy.
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