Eddie Howe thinks his “iconic” Newcastle stars will become club “legends” after leading the Magpies to EFL Cup glory against Liverpool.
After seven decades of heartbreak, Newcastle finally ended their trophy drought by defeating Premier League leaders Liverpool 2-1 at Wembley, securing their first-ever EFL Cup and their first major domestic title since the 1955 FA Cup.
Man of the Match Dan Burn, fresh off his first England call-up, broke the deadlock with a powerful header just before halftime. Seven minutes into the second half, top scorer Alexander Isak doubled the lead with his 23rd goal of the season. Liverpool, surprisingly lackluster under Arne Slot, managed a late consolation through substitute Federico Chiesa, but it was too little, too late.
As the final whistle blew, Wembley turned black and white as Newcastle fans celebrated a historic victory. The triumph ended a painful nine-game losing streak at the venue and snapped a run of five consecutive cup final defeats.
When Eddie Howe took charge in 2021, his mission extended beyond improving performances on the pitch—he had to reignite belief among a fanbase that had suffered years of disappointment under former owner Mike Ashley.
With Howe at the helm and the Saudi-backed takeover transforming the club, Newcastle have evolved into one of England’s top teams, competing in the Champions League and now lifting long-awaited silverware.
Howe Hails “Iconic” Players After EFL Cup Win
From captain Bruno Guimarães to Joelinton, Isak, and Burn, several Newcastle players have become fan favorites under Howe. The manager emphasizes the crucial bond between players and supporters—something he believes hasn’t always been there.
Speaking to Sports Mole after the win, Howe said:
“I think it’s huge. The supporters need to enjoy watching this team play, and they’ve got their heroes in the squad. I encourage that.”
“We’ve got some iconic players who will go down as club legends, but they still need to cement that legacy. This squad is not just talented but full of great stories—players who have fought against the odds to reach this stage and continue to excel.”
This victory marks Howe’s first major trophy as a manager and makes him the first English coach to win a domestic cup since Harry Redknapp’s FA Cup triumph with Portsmouth in 2008. Coincidentally, Redknapp’s first signing at Portsmouth in 2002 was none other than Eddie Howe himself.
Newcastle’s EFL Cup success guarantees them a spot in next season’s Conference League, but their sights are set higher. Currently sixth in the Premier League, just two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with a game in hand, the Magpies will push for a Champions League berth.
They return to St. James’ Park on April 2 to face Brentford, aiming to build on their historic Wembley triumph and finish the season on a high.
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