On Sunday, March 16 2025, Newcastle United ended a 70-year wait for domestic silverware by defeating Liverpool 2-1 in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium. This historic victory not only quenched the thirst of the Toon Army but also marked the club’s first major trophy since the 1969 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup.
The atmosphere in London was electric as thousands of Newcastle supporters flooded the capital, their black-and-white stripes painting the city in anticipation of the monumental clash. Photographer Orlando Gili turned his lens towards this fervent fanbase to document their journey through the day, from pre-match pints to the euphoric celebrations that lit up the streets post-victory.
Toon Army 2025 is photo series by Orlando Gili documenting Newcastle United’s dedicated supporters during their historic 2-1 Carabao Cup final victory over Liverpool at Wembley Stadium. The limited edition A5 zine, contains over 70 full colour photographs spread across 60 pages.
Reflecting on his inspiration for the series, Gili said, “I’ve had a soft spot for Newcastle United having studied at the city’s university in the Noughties. It’s really hard to not fall in love with Tyneside and its people. The Geordies are full of spirit with good humour and cheer, they are straightforward, hard-working people.”
The day began with fans congregating in various London pubs, their spirits high with songs, anthems and chants belting out. As kick-off approached, the sea of supporters made their pilgrimage to Wembley, their collective energy palpable. Inside the stadium, the Toon Army‘s notoriously passionate support created a wall of sound, setting the stage for a match that would etch itself into Newcastle’s rich footballing history.
Gili’s photographs capture the raw emotion of the fans throughout this journey. From the tense moments of the match to the explosion of joy at the final whistle, his images tell the story of a fanbase that has endured decades of near misses and heartbreaks, now finally basking in the glory of triumph.
Lower Block founder and editor Matt Lidbury added. “Orlando’s photographs beautifully capture a truly historic moment in Newcastle United’s long and storied journey. The images from the Carabao Cup final are more than just documentation; they’re a tribute to the spirit of the Toon Army. I think most football fans, with the possible exception of the Mackems, have a deep respect for Newcastle supporters. Through decades of ups and downs, relegations and rebuilds, one thing has remained constant: the passion, loyalty, and deafening support that fills St James’ Park every single week. When Orlando first approached me with the idea for this project, before the match had even taken place, I knew instantly that it could be something special — something we had to do if Newcastle were to win. These are the kinds of moments fans dream of, but rarely get to live. To see it, to feel it, to capture it — that’s what makes this project so powerful.”
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Toon Army 1996Price range: £40.00 through £75.00 -
Toon Army 1996 | Keith Pattison£8.50 -
Wembley 1990-03 | Tony Davis£8.50
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