Newcastle United and Liverpool meet at Wembley on Sunday.
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United are chasing a first major domestic trophy since 1955 when they meet Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final.
Defeated at this stage of the tournament two years ago, Howe’s side are out to make amends. While beating the Reds will not be easy of course, Newcastle just didn’t show up against Manchester United in 2023 and this time needs to be different.
It is a huge game at Wembley.
Indeed, it promises to be another dramatic affair, so here’s a look at who is in charge of the Carabao Cup‘s showpiece game.
Carabao Cup final referee: Who is in charge of Liverpool vs Newcastle United?
John Brooks has been appointed the referee for the 2025 Carabao Cup final, with Stuart Attwell on VAR duty.
Eddie Smart is the assistant to Brooks, alongside Nick Greenhalgh. Darren England will be the fourth official, while Sian Massey-Ellis is the assistant VAR.
Is VAR in use for the Carabao Cup final?
Yes.
Although VAR is not used in some of the earlier rounds, it will be in play at Wembley on Sunday. Brooks will make announcements to the crowd to explain any decision VAR make, something Newcastle fans saw in action when Fabian Schar’s goal was ruled out against Brighton earlier this month.
How can I watch the Carabao Cup final for free?
The EFL and ITV reached an agreement to show a select number of Carabao Cup games on free-to-air television, which began in January 2025.
With that in mind, the game will broadcast live on ITV for free, as well as on the usual Sky Sports platforms.
For those looking for a live stream, ITVX – which is free with an email subscription – will provide one.
Do the Carabao Cup winners qualify for Europe?
Winning the Carabao Cup would mean Newcastle qualify for the Conference League, which would at least send supporters back on a European adventure next season – even if it’s the competition everyone is chasing.