Nick Pope has revealed how Newcastle United’s Wembley stars bought into the fact that “history was on the line” in the Carbao Cup final.
The Newcastle stopper got the nod between the posts ahead of Martin Dubravka against Liverpool and did not let anybody down. His second half save to flick away Curtis Jones’ goal-bound effort will now go down as part of Geordie folklore after playing a big role in the 2-1 victory.
But rather than be daunted by the weight of history on their shoulders, Newcastle embraced the challenge and lifted their first trophy in 70 years. Pope said: “It is an unbelievable feeling, and I can’t describe anything close to it, to be honest. We played so well on the day. We knew that history was on the line so it is an incredible feat in itself. I am incredibly proud of everybody connected to the club. We played out of our skin and the lads were unbelievable. The relief at the final whistle was there.”
Although, Pope was denied a Wembley clean sheet after Federico Chiesa’s late Carabao Cup final goal that made for a nervous finale. Pope, with a smile, said: “It’s never too easy is it? They got the goal, and we were on edge a little bit. The relief at the final whistle was what we needed. We had played so well and deserved to win the game. Liverpool fight right to the end. We dealt with it and the setback at the end, it spoke volume of the staff.”
For Pope it was also Carabao Cup redemption after missing the final in 2023 because of suspension after a red card against Liverpool in the Premier League. In a close call between the ex-Burnley man and Slovakia international Dubravka, Pope looked back on the contrast of emotions.
The Toon goalie added: “I missed the last final and I got injured in the Champions League so to get on the end of a good moment means the world. So many people have helped me at different crossroads along the way in my career. Obviously, your family has been there through the ups and downs.”
