Fans have been quick to address a major issue following Liverpool’s 2-1 loss to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final, which saw the Magpies end a 70-year wait for domestic silverware. The victory at Wembley on Sunday, secured by goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak, marked a historic moment for Newcastle, who won their first trophy since 1955.
Eddie Howe’s side took the lead in the first half when Burn powered in a header from a corner. Early in the second half, Isak doubled the lead with a well-taken finish from a Jacob Murphy knockdown, just minutes after a rebound goal had been ruled out for offside.
Despite a late strike from Federico Chiesa, who was confirmed onside after a VAR check, Newcastle held firm and secured a thoroughly deserved win. Liverpool, who had already been eliminated from the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain on penalties earlier in the week, failed to ignite their attack, with Mo Salah, in particular, struggling to make an impact.
Salah’s poor performance in the final sparked frustration among fans, many of whom pointed out that his only goal in a final for Liverpool was a penalty in the 2019 Champions League final against Spurs. Fans on social media did not hold back in their criticism:
One fan wrote on X: “Mohamed Salah and Finals. We have to have a conversation.”
Another added: “Dan Burn has more NPG in finals than Mo Salah.”
A third commented: “Another big game, and Salah hasn’t done a single thing.”
A fourth fan agreed, stating: “The last week has summed up why Mo Salah can’t be in Ballon d’Or conversations or be considered an all-time great. He’s simply not good enough when it matters.”
A final user said: “We’ll soon have a serious conversation about Mo Salah. Bro’s been wearing this ghost costume for days.”
While the result means Newcastle will play in Europe next season with a Conference League spot secured, the outcome also raises questions about Salah’s ability to perform on the biggest stages. If Newcastle qualifies for the Europa League or Champions League via the Premier League, their Carabao Cup Conference League spot will be passed to the team finishing seventh or eighth in the league.
