Liverpool’s League Cup defense came to a disappointing end as they lost 2-1 to Newcastle United in the final. Federico Chiesa’s stoppage-time goal for the Reds proved to be little more than a consolation, as the Magpies triumphed to claim their first domestic trophy in 70 years.
Eddie Howe’s side fully deserved their victory, while Liverpool’s week went from bad to worse, following their Champions League round-of-16 exit to Paris Saint-Germain earlier in the week. The defeat at Wembley dashed Liverpool’s hopes of winning a record 11th League Cup.
Despite the crushing loss, Liverpool’s players made sure to show respect to their opponents. After receiving his runner-up medal, head coach Arne Slot stood at the front of the pitch, shaking hands with each Newcastle player as they collected their trophy. This gesture was a classy act from the Dutchman in the face of defeat.
Likewise, players such as Cody Gakpo and Andy Robertson also went around the Newcastle squad to offer congratulations after receiving their own medals.
With Liverpool now facing a two-and-a-half-week break before their next match against Everton in the Merseyside derby on April 2, they still sit 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League with nine games remaining. Despite Arsenal’s win over Chelsea earlier in the day, closing the gap on Liverpool, the Reds remain favorites for the league title.
However, Arne Slot will need to lift his side after a difficult week and back-to-back losses, which have seen their hopes of multiple trophies this season come to an end.
