Newcastle United Faces Liverpool for EFL Cup Glory Amid Injury Challenges
This Sunday, Newcastle United will attempt to end a daunting 68-year trophy drought as they face Liverpool at Wembley Stadium for the much-coveted EFL Cup title. The Magpies, who last lifted a trophy in 1955, are determined to secure victory after narrowly losing to Manchester United in the same competition last year. However, Newcastle heads into the match facing significant adversity, particularly on their left flank, as two key players are unavailable for selection.
Key Player Absences
Newcastle will be without Anthony Gordon and Lewis Hall, both vital to the team’s performance throughout the season. Gordon, who has contributed nine goals and six assists across all competitions, is suspended after receiving a red card in a recent FA Cup match against Brighton. Meanwhile, Hall is sidelined for the season after surgery for a foot injury incurred during a match against Liverpool earlier this year.
Gordon is expected to be replaced by Harvey Barnes, who, while capable, plays with a different attacking style. Gordon’s approach offers a balance of build-up play and defensive pressing alongside his ability to score, whereas Barnes tends to focus on taking shots rather than creating opportunities for teammates. This shift might alter Newcastle’s strategy, particularly in how they utilize their fullbacks against Liverpool’s attacking threats.
Defensive Adjustments Necessary
With Hall’s absence, manager Eddie Howe faces a strategic dilemma regarding the left side of the defense. Valentino Livramento, a natural right back, may be shifted to play on the left, which raises concerns about the team’s overall balance and attacking fluidity. Without Hall, who had been instrumental in handling top forwards like Mohamed Salah, Newcastle may struggle to contain the Egyptian star, who boasts an impressive season with 32 goals and 22 assists.
Howe’s previous experience at this stage underscores the importance of tactical discipline, especially given Liverpool’s capabilities. In their recent encounter at the end of February, Newcastle managed only three shots, failing to test Liverpool’s goalkeeper, Alisson Becker. The return of forward Alexander Isak for this match could enhance Newcastle’s offensive output, but the challenge remains substantial if they cannot neutralize Salah’s threat.
Midfield Battle Critical
Central to Newcastle’s chances will be their midfield trio of Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, and Bruno Guimarães. With the absence of wide players impacting their attack, the team must focus on penetrating Liverpool’s central defense. This trio is skilled and capable of creating opportunities but faces a formidable task against a Reds side that currently leads the Premier League by 15 points.
Match Context and Potential Impacts
Newcastle comes into this match with some psychological advantages. Liverpool’s recent 120-minute match against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, which ended in a penalty loss, could leave them fatigued. Additionally, the possible absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold after he was substituted early in that match adds to Liverpool’s vulnerabilities.
How to Watch
The matchup between these two historic clubs is set for Sunday, March 16, at 12:30 p.m. ET, at Wembley Stadium. Fans can catch the action live on CBS Sports Golazo and stream it via Paramount+.
In terms of betting odds, Liverpool is favored with odds of -170, while Newcastle sits at +400, with a draw at +200.
Conclusion
As Newcastle United prepares for this high-stakes clash, the focus will be on their ability to adapt under pressure—both due to player absences and the historical significance of the occasion. Should they overcome these challenges and secure a victory, it would not only mark the end of a long trophy drought but also signify a new chapter in the club’s resurgence under Eddie Howe’s leadership. The outcome of this match could reverberate throughout the club, instilling a renewed sense of ambition and belief moving forward.
