Newcastle United’s form has taken a dip since securing their place in the Wembley Stadium final with a victory over Southampton. Back-to-back draws with West Ham United and Bournemouth were followed by a defeat to Liverpool, which slowed their momentum. The absence of Nick Pope in the final is a significant loss for the team.
Manchester United
On Thursday, Ajax exhibited their belief and confidence by coming from behind to defeat Barcelona 4-3 on aggregate in the Europa League. Erik ten Hag, their coach, will view this weekend as an opportunity to emphasize the progress his team has made. Generally, progress is associated with silverware, and Manchester United is expected to be the favourite in the League Cup Final after overcoming Aston Villa, Burnley, Charlton Athletic, and Nottingham Forest to return to Wembley Stadium.
Manchester United has extended two impressive streaks. They are now unbeaten in 9 games in all competitions and have scored two or more goals in 10 straight fixtures. Additionally, they have only lost 1 of their last 7 games away from Old Trafford and had triumphed over Nottingham Forest and Leeds United before drawing 2-2 at the Camp Nou.
Anthony Martial has already been ruled out and is uncertain for the upcoming matches against West Ham United and Liverpool. Fans are more concerned about the status of Marcus Rashford, who sustained an injury on Thursday.
Newcastle United
Newcastle United are among the teams competing for a spot in the top four as the season enters its final stages. However, their priority this weekend is the League Cup Final, as they aim to put an end to their lengthy trophy drought. The last time they made it to the Cup Final was in 1999, where they lost to the same team they face on Sunday. The Magpies have had an impressive run in the League Cup this season, winning against Tranmere Rovers, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Leicester City, and Southampton, conceding only twice in six cup ties.
While Newcastle United emerged victorious against Southampton in both legs of the League Cup semifinals, they have failed to win any of their three Premier League games since booking their place in the Wembley Stadium final. Their unbeaten Premier League run was broken last weekend when they lost to Liverpool for the second time this season. Additionally, they have won just one of their last five away games played at St James’ Park.
Bruno Guimaraes returns from a suspension, but Nick Pope will be unavailable after being sent off last Saturday. Martin Dubravka is cup-tied, so Loris Karius is expected to take his place in goal. Joe Willock is doubtful for the game, but Joelinton should be fit to play.
TWV Sport Team Thoughts
While Newcastle United’s defence has remained solid, they have struggled to score goals, which could be problematic against Manchester United, who have scored two or more goals in 10 consecutive games. Manchester United’s defense, led by Casemiro in midfield, doesn’t get as much attention, but they don’t give up many chances. Prior to the game against Barcelona, they had not conceded more than one goal in any game started by Casemiro after the World Cup break. They continued their strong form on Thursday, beating Barcelona 2-1 at Old Trafford.
Considering these factors, we believe Manchester United will have enough attacking power to score the necessary goals to win the Cup Final. They should also be able to contain Newcastle United’s threat for a sufficient period to end their six-year trophy drought. Although Eddie Howe’s team deserves respect, their recent run of nine goals in 11 games is not encouraging, and we expect Manchester United’s attacking players to produce some special moments.
Match Result Prediction
Manchester United to win.
Score Prediction
Manchester United 2 – 1 Newcastle United
