The Carabao Cup, officially known as the EFL Cup, is an annual football competition in English football. It features clubs from the Premier League and the English Football League (EFL). The current holders are Liverpool FC, who have won the trophy a record ten times.
The 2024-2025 Carabao Cup is nearing its conclusion, with the final scheduled for Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Wembley Stadium. The match will feature Liverpool FC and Newcastle United. Liverpool, under manager Arne Slot, are aiming to defend their title, while Newcastle United are seeking their first major trophy since 1969.
Notably, the Carabao Cup offers a spot in the UEFA Europa Conference League qualifiers for the winners. However, if the winning team has already secured European competition through their league position, the European spot passes to the next highest-placed team not already qualified.
In terms of financial rewards, the Carabao Cup winners receive £100,000, while the runners-up get £50,000. This amount is relatively modest compared to other competitions.
Recent developments include concerns for Liverpool as Trent Alexander-Arnold sustained an ankle injury during a Champions League match, making him doubtful for the Carabao Cup final. Additionally, Newcastle United have altered their preparations, such as changing hotels, to improve their chances following their previous loss in the 2023 final.