Liverpool’s Carabao Cup Hopes Dashed By Newcastle In Wembley Defeat

Liverpool manager Arne Slot conceded defeat in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Newcastle United, describing his team’s performance as “disappointing” in a 2-1 loss at Wembley Stadium.

The Reds’ bid to retain the trophy ended with a Newcastle victory, secured by goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak.

A late consolation goal from substitute Federico Chiesa proved insufficient to spark a comeback.

Slot addressed the media post-match, expressing his disappointment with both the result and the team’s display.

He acknowledged the back-to-back losses against Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle, a first for his tenure at Liverpool.

While admitting the defeats were setbacks, he pointed out that Liverpool had extended their Premier League lead to 12 points during the same week.

The manager dismissed concerns about physical or mental fatigue following Tuesday’s match against PSG, stating that the Newcastle game was decided by aerial duels and physicality rather than overall running intensity.

He praised Newcastle’s aerial dominance, citing this as the key factor in conceding both goals, including Burn’s header from a corner.

Slot defended his team’s zonal marking strategy, highlighting Burn’s exceptional header as an outlier.

Slot refuted suggestions that Newcastle’s 70-year trophy drought fueled their hunger, arguing that the desire to win is inherent in all professional players.

He instead attributed Newcastle’s victory to their superior ability in aerial duels, allowing them to dictate the game’s flow.

He discussed tactical adjustments made at halftime, including bringing on Darwin Núñez to combat Newcastle’s aerial strength, but conceded that Newcastle ultimately outmatched Liverpool in their preferred style of play.

Slot acknowledged the “damaging” week, encompassing both the Carabao Cup final loss and their Champions League exit, but emphasized the team’s strong Premier League form.

He stressed that Liverpool, despite their stature, are not immune to defeats, particularly against top-tier opponents like PSG and Newcastle.

The international break, Slot said, has arrived at a convenient time for his squad, allowing them to recover and prepare for future matches.

He remained unconcerned about persistent physical or mental issues, highlighting the team’s previously strong physical performances and attributing recent setbacks to the quality of their opponents.

The manager now looks ahead to the upcoming Premier League clash against Everton, another challenging fixture.