Ronnie Whelan's extra-time winner gave Liverpool a third successive League Cup on 26 March 1983. Manchester United had led for more than an hour at Wembley before Alan Kennedy equalised, setting up a 2–1 victory in Bob Paisley's last final as manager.
United went ahead after 12 minutes. Norman Whiteside controlled a long ball, got past Alan Hansen and drove his shot beyond Bruce Grobbelaar. At 17, he became the competition's youngest final goalscorer.
Liverpool had to wait until the 75th minute for their reply. Kennedy, advancing from left-back, struck from distance to beat Gary Bailey and bring the holders level. United had already lost Kevin Moran, replaced by Lou Macari.
Late in normal time Grobbelaar fouled Gordon McQueen as he ran towards goal. Referee George Courtney booked the goalkeeper, who remained on the field for extra-time.
Eight minutes into the additional period, Whelan curled his shot past Bailey for the winning goal. He had scored twice in the previous year's final against Tottenham; another decisive Wembley finish now completed Liverpool's recovery.
Paisley, retiring at the end of the season, lifted the trophy. The captain, Graeme Souness, had sent him up to receive it.