Liverpool suffered a disappointing defeat in the League Cup final, falling 2-1 to Newcastle at Wembley. Despite a late goal from Federico Chiesa, goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak left Liverpool struggling throughout the match. The loss means Slot will have to wait longer for his first trophy as manager, although his team still holds a 12-point lead at the top of the Premier League with nine games remaining.
Player Ratings:
Caoimhin Kelleher – 6
Made some routine saves and distributed the ball well. Couldn’t do much about either Newcastle goal but had a solid second half.
Jarell Quansah – 7
Had a solid game overall, aside from a misstep that nearly allowed Isak to score. Made an important defensive contribution and adapted well to different positions.
Ibrahima Konaté – 6
Had a mixed performance with some crucial clearances but also gave the ball away too easily. Substituted after Newcastle’s second goal.
Virgil van Dijk – 8
The standout player, winning aerial duels and defending aggressively. Looked closest to his usual level, even pushing forward late in the game.
Andy Robertson – 5
Made some key blocks but was caught out for Newcastle’s second goal. Tried to bring energy to Liverpool’s play but struggled defensively.
Ryan Gravenberch – 4
Had a tough match, showing signs of fatigue. Played much of the second half at center-back before being substituted.
Alexis Mac Allister – 5
Tried to control play but was dispossessed too often. Shouldn’t have been marking Burn at set pieces. Substituted.
Mohamed Salah – 3
Had a minimal impact on the game as most attacks came down the left. Struggled to get involved and was unusually ineffective.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 5
Started the match well but faded quickly. Had more involvement after the break, but it wasn’t enough.
Luis Díaz – 4
Showed some promise but lacked finishing ability and struggled to beat Trippier. Substituted.
Diogo Jota – 3
Had little service and was isolated against Newcastle’s defense. Missed a half-chance and was substituted.
Substitutes:
Darwin Núñez (for Jota, 57’) – 4
Had a heavy touch in the box and was mostly absent from the game.
Curtis Jones (for Konaté, 57’) – 5
Tried to bring energy and tested Pope with a shot, but fired another chance over the bar.
Cody Gakpo (for Mac Allister, 67’) – 4
Delivered one cross but appeared unfit.
Federico Chiesa (for Gravenberch, 74’) – 7
Scored a late goal but had little time to change the outcome.
