Dan Burn’s emotional reaction after Newcastle United’s 2-1 Carabao Cup Final triumph over Liverpool summed up the historic significance of the night. The towering defender, who scored the opening goal, could hardly believe what had happened, saying:
“I don’t want to go to sleep because I feel like I’m dreaming.”
For Newcastle United, this was not just another cup win—it was their first major trophy in 56 years. And for Dan Burn, a boyhood Newcastle fan, the moment was even more surreal. Not only did he score in a Wembley final, but he also helped secure Newcastle’s first piece of silverware since 1969.
Here’s a detailed look at why Dan Burn’s Wembley moment was truly special and why his story resonates with football fans worldwide.
1. A Dream Come True for a Lifelong Newcastle Fan
Dan Burn’s journey to becoming a Newcastle hero is one straight out of a fairy tale. Born in Blyth, Northumberland, just a short distance from Newcastle, Burn grew up dreaming of playing for the Magpies.
After stints at Darlington, Fulham, Wigan, and Brighton, he finally returned to his boyhood club in 2022—a move that delighted Newcastle fans. To go from standing on the terraces as a fan to scoring in a cup final at Wembley is something out of a storybook.
“I used to stand in the Gallowgate as a kid,” Burn said in a past interview. “Now I get to wear the shirt.”
2. Scoring in a Wembley Final: The Defender Who Became a Hero
Newcastle United took the lead in the Carabao Cup Final thanks to an unlikely source—Dan Burn. The 6’7” defender was an ever-present rock at the back throughout the match, but his biggest moment came in the 39th minute.
A Kieran Trippier cross found Burn inside the box, and the defender towered above the Liverpool defenders, heading the ball past Caoimhin Kelleher to put Newcastle 1-0 up. The celebrations were electric, with Burn running toward the fans, arms spread wide, as Wembley erupted in black-and-white ecstasy.
For a player who was once released by Newcastle’s academy as a teenager, this was the ultimate redemption moment.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 16: Dan Burn of Newcastle United (33) scores Newcastle’s opening goal during the Carabao Cup Final between Liverpool and Newcastle United at Wembley Stadium on March 16, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Michelle Mercer/Newcastle United via Getty Images)
3. The Emotional Impact of Newcastle’s First Trophy in 56 Years
Newcastle fans had waited since 1969 for a major trophy, and the weight of history made this moment even more special. The club had come close on multiple occasions, but heartbreak had always followed.
Burn’s goal was the spark that ignited belief, and when Alexander Isak added a second goal early in the second half, Newcastle knew their dream was within reach.
When the final whistle blew, tears flowed freely among Newcastle fans and players alike. Burn, overwhelmed with emotion, described the victory as one of the best moments of his life.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 16: Dan Burn of Newcastle United celebrates 1st goal during the Carabao Cup Final between Liverpool and Newcastle United at Wembley Stadium on March 16, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
“To be honest, I don’t want to go to sleep because I feel like I’m dreaming,” Burn said post-match.
4. From Non-League Football to Wembley Glory
Dan Burn’s journey to success wasn’t easy. Unlike many footballers who rise through the ranks at top academies, Burn had to fight for his place in the game.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 16: Dan Burn of Newcastle United lifts the Carabao Cup Trophy after his team’s victory in the Carabao Cup Final between Liverpool and Newcastle United at Wembley Stadium on March 16, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
After being released by Newcastle’s youth setup, he played for Darlington in non-league football, working his way up through the lower divisions. His breakthrough came at Fulham, before moving to Wigan, Brighton, and finally, Newcastle.
His story is one of perseverance, resilience, and self-belief—a testament to hard work paying off. Many players might have given up after being released by their hometown club, but Burn never lost sight of his dream.
“I never thought I’d get the chance to play for Newcastle again, let alone win a cup final with them,” Burn said.
5. The 8 AM Shift That Defines His Character
Most players would celebrate into the early hours after winning a major trophy at Wembley, but Dan Burn is not like most players. Instead of partying all night, Burn revealed that he had to be up at 8 AM the next morning for a work commitment.
“Most fans would be devastated working at 8 AM after their club won a trophy, but most fans aren’t Dan Burn.”
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 16: Dan Burn of Newcastle United scores their side’s first goal during the Carabao Cup Final between Liverpool and Newcastle United at Wembley Stadium on March 16, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
This down-to-earth attitude is what makes him so beloved by Newcastle supporters. He’s not just a player—he’s one of them, and his humble nature perfectly embodies the spirit of Newcastle United.
What’s Next for Newcastle and Dan Burn?
Now that Newcastle has broken their trophy drought, the big question is: what comes next?
This Carabao Cup win could be the first of many for Eddie Howe’s side, who are building a team capable of challenging for Premier League and European honors.
As for Dan Burn, he has already achieved something that most footballers can only dream of. But knowing his character, he won’t stop here. With Newcastle pushing for Champions League qualification, he will continue to play a crucial role in their success.
“Winning one trophy is special,” Burn said, “but I want to help bring even more to this club.”
Dan Burn’s fairy-tale journey from Newcastle fan to Newcastle hero is what makes football so special. His Carabao Cup Final goal, combined with his humble personality, has cemented his place as a club legend.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 16: Dan Burn of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Carabao Cup Final between Liverpool and Newcastle United at Wembley Stadium on March 16, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Newcastle’s historic triumph has set the stage for a bright future, and Burn will forever be remembered as one of the players who ended the club’s 56-year wait for silverware.
For Newcastle fans, this victory was more than just a trophy—it was a dream come true. And for Dan Burn, that dream is one he never wants to wake up from.