Virgil van Dijk's decisive header in extra time secured a stunning Carabao Cup final victory for a depleted Liverpool against Chelsea at Wembley. Despite having a goal controversially disallowed earlier in the match, Van Dijk found the net from Kostas Tsimikas' corner in the 118th minute, sealing Liverpool's 10th triumph in the competition.
This victory was achieved without key players such as Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez, and Diogo Jota, with Ryan Gravenberch also forced off on a stretcher after a challenge from Moises Caicedo. Liverpool's win marks the first step in a potential quadruple in Jurgen Klopp's farewell season. However, it was a bitter defeat for Chelsea and manager Mauricio Pochettino, who have now lost six consecutive Wembley finals, including three to Liverpool.
Goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher was instrumental in Liverpool's success, producing several outstanding saves throughout the match. Despite a tightly contested first half, with chances for both sides, neither team could break the deadlock until Van Dijk's decisive header late in extra time.
The match was filled with drama, including VAR interventions, disallowed goals, and goal-line clearances. Chelsea had their opportunities, with Conor Gallagher hitting the woodwork and being denied by Kelleher on multiple occasions. However, it was Liverpool who ultimately emerged victorious, adding another memorable chapter to their storied rivalry with Chelsea.
