EFL release the stunning viewing figures after Newcastle United’s incredible Wembley triumph over Liverpool

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United etched their name into the history books on Sunday with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley.

The win ended a 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy, and millions of fans around the world tuned in to witness the historic moment. The English Football League (EFL) has since released staggering viewing figures, highlighting the global appeal and significance of Newcastle’s triumph.

According to the EFL, the final attracted a peak domestic UK TV audience of nearly 8 million viewers, with an average of 6.3 million fans tuning in across Sky Sports Football, Sky Sports Main Event, ITV1, and ITVX during the 90 minutes.

The match was broadcast in 193 international territories, drawing millions more viewers worldwide. This remarkable reach underscores the growing popularity of the Carabao Cup, particularly following the groundbreaking partnership between the EFL and Sky Sports, which ensured every match of the competition was broadcast live in the UK for the first time ever this season.

The EFL’s statement emphasized the impact of the joint broadcast arrangement between Sky Sports and ITV, which began in January 2024. This collaboration, which included coverage of the Carabao Cup semi-final ties, has significantly increased the competition’s exposure and boosted audience numbers.

The final itself was a spectacle, with 88,513 fans packing Wembley Stadium—the highest attendance for any European fixture that weekend. This season’s total attendance for the Carabao Cup reached nearly 1.8 million, marking a 20% increase compared to the previous campaign.

EFL Chief Executive Officer Trevor Birch praised the competition’s success, stating, “The attendance and viewership numbers for Sunday’s Final demonstrate the continued popularity of the Carabao Cup and the value the competition holds in the football calendar for supporters up and down the country and across the world.

It was a fitting finale to a wonderful season of Carabao Cup football, and I’d like to thank each of Sky Sports, ITV, and our international broadcast partners for making it such a success.”

Newcastle’s victory was a story of resilience and determination. Dan Burn opened the scoring with a powerful header in the first half, sending the Geordie faithful into raptures. Alexander Isak doubled the lead in the second half, showcasing his clinical finishing and composure under pressure.

Liverpool managed to pull one back through substitute Federico Chiesa in stoppage time, but it was too little, too late as Newcastle held on to secure a historic win.

For Burn, the victory capped off an extraordinary week. The 32-year-old defender, who has been a revelation since joining Newcastle, not only scored in a major final but also earned a surprise call-up to the England national team.

Burn’s journey is a testament to perseverance, as he had long believed his chance to represent his country had passed him by. His performances this season, including a goal in the Champions League and now the Carabao Cup final, have been nothing short of inspirational.

The win at Wembley marks a turning point for Newcastle United, a club that has endured decades of frustration and near-misses. Under Eddie Howe’s leadership, the Magpies have transformed into a formidable force, capable of competing with the best teams in the country. The Carabao Cup triumph is not just a trophy; it’s a symbol of the club’s resurgence and a source of immense pride for its loyal fanbase.

As the celebrations continue on Tyneside and beyond, the significance of this victory cannot be overstated. For Newcastle fans, it’s a moment they will cherish forever—a reward for years of unwavering support and a sign of brighter days ahead.

The EFL’s impressive viewing figures and attendance records further highlight the enduring appeal of the Carabao Cup and the magic of cup football. For Newcastle United, this is just the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with hope, ambition, and the promise of more success to come.