Liverpool and Newcastle United will battle for glory in Sunday’s EFL Cup final at Wembley Stadium. The Reds are chasing their 11th title, while the Magpies are eager to end their trophy drought since 1955.
Liverpool will be without star right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, Conor Bradley, and Joe Gomez, who are ruled out with injuries. Midfielder Tyler Morton is also sidelined, while defender Ibrahima Konate remains doubtful.
Jurgen Klopp’s predicted starting XI features Caoimhin Kelleher in goal, with Jarell Quansah, Konate, Virgil van Dijk, and Andy Robertson in defense. Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch will control the midfield, while Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, Luis Diaz, and Cody Gakpo lead the attack.
Newcastle will also be missing key players. Anthony Gordon is suspended, while defenders Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, and Lewis Hall are out due to injury. Fortunately, Eddie Howe has no other fitness concerns.
The Magpies are expected to line up with Martin Dubravka in goal, supported by Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Dan Burn, and Tino Livramento in defense. Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton will handle the midfield, while Jacob Murphy, Alexander Isak, and Harvey Barnes lead the attack.
Liverpool, with their rich history in the competition, are favorites to lift the trophy. However, Newcastle’s desire to secure their first major silverware in nearly seven decades adds extra intensity to the clash.
The absence of influential players like Alexander-Arnold and Botman will test both sides’ depth and tactical flexibility. Liverpool’s firepower up front will be crucial, while Newcastle’s solid midfield will aim to control the tempo.
With both managers eager to make history, this showdown promises a thrilling contest filled with passion, drama, and high stakes at Wembley.
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