Newcastle Seek Redemption against Fulham in Carabao Cup

Cup holders under pressure at St James’ Park

Defending Carabao Cup champions Newcastle United return to familiar territory on Wednesday night as they host an in-form Fulham side with a place in the semifinals at stake. After a bruising 1-0 Wear-Tyne derby defeat to Sunderland, this fixture offers an immediate chance for redemption.

Captain Bruno Guimarães did not mince his words after the derby loss, branding the performance “shameful.” That blunt assessment underlines the intensity surrounding Newcastle’s response, particularly as they return to the competition that ended a 70-year wait for silverware last March. Their record in this tournament at St James’ Park is formidable, with 11 consecutive home wins in the Carabao Cup, including a victory over Tottenham in the previous round.

Home strength vs Fulham momentum

Newcastle’s broader home form also inspires confidence. Since September, they have lost just twice at St James’ Park, against Arsenal and Barcelona, while recording nine wins and a draw in all competitions. Eddie Howe’s side will therefore enter the tie as deserved favourites.

However, Fulham arrive with momentum and belief. Marco Silva’s team have won five of their last eight matches, including back-to-back away victories, and their dramatic 3-2 win over Burnley at the weekend lifted them to within just two points of Newcastle in the Premier League. Any lingering relegation fears have evaporated, replaced by growing ambition.

History favours the hosts

The Magpies also hold the edge historically. Newcastle beat Fulham 2-1 earlier this season in the Premier League and boast a strong home record in this fixture, losing just twice in their last 11 home meetings. This will be the sides’ first Carabao Cup encounter since the 1981/82 season.

Still, Fulham’s cup record suggests resilience. Three of their last five away matches in this competition have gone to penalties, and they reached the semifinals as recently as last season, only falling to Liverpool.

Key players and team news

Guimarães remains central to Newcastle’s hopes, having scored the stoppage-time winner in the most recent meeting between the sides and contributing five goal involvements in eight matches against Fulham. For the visitors, Harry Wilson is the standout threat, directly involved in 11 goals across his last eight club and international appearances.

Newcastle face defensive concerns, with Dan Burn the latest absentee after being hospitalised following the Sunderland match. Fulham may be without Ryan Sessegnon, slightly limiting Silva’s options down the flank.