After an exciting final against Liverpool, Newcastle United won the EFL Cup, securing their first trophy in 70 years.
In a match that Newcastle United aimed to be filled with emotions, physicality, and transitions, the Magpies triumphed as they succeeded in their objectives, securing their first silverware since the FA Cup in 1955.
Both teams struggled to create chances from open play.
Still, Newcastle United emerged victorious through their impressive set-piece plans and lethal transitions, which were exactly what Newcastle needed to turn the match in their favour.
In this tactical analysis, we will examine the rivalry between Eddie Howe and Arne Slots teams, analyzing how each team attempted to counter the other during the match.
We will highlight the key tactics of both teams in open play and set-pieces in this Carabao Cup Final.
Liverpool Vs Newcastle United Lineups & Formations
Liverpool used their primary 4-3-3 formation, turning into a 4-2-3-1.
RB: Jarell Quansah
RCB: Ibrahima Konaté
LCB: Virgil van Dijk
LB: Andy Robertson
CDM: Ryan Gravenberch
LCM: Alexis Mac Allister
RCM: Dominik Szoboszlai
RW: Mohamed Salah
LW: Luis Díaz
ST: Diogo Jota
Newcastle United employed a 4-3-3 shape, which, as we will explain, varied depending on the game phase.
GK: Nick Pope
RB: Kieran Trippier
RCB: Fabian Schär
LCB: Dan Burn
LB: Tino Livramento
CM: Joelinton
LCM: Sandro Tonali
RCM: Bruno Guimarães
RW: Jacob Murphy
LW: Harvey Barnes
ST: Alexander Isak
Liverpool With The Ball
Starting with Liverpools tactics with the ball, they spent most of the match in a build-up phase as Newcastle United pressed high.
As shown below, Harvey Barnes (LW) joins Alexander Isak to form two in the first pressing line, with three players behind them in the second line (RW, RCM, and LCM).
Isak always presses the goalkeeper with a curved run, shadowing Virgil van Dijk to implement side pressing.
This forces the goalkeeper to pass to his right or to send a long ball.
Their plan works, as shown in the photo below, and Liverpools RB is free.
At the same time, Newcastles second line starts to drop back.
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