Newcastle vs Barcelona Preview

• Draw or Barcelona win
• Mais de 2,5 golos

Newcastle United are back in the UEFA Champions League after a year’s absence and face the daunting task of welcoming Barcelona to St James’ Park. Eddie Howe’s men come into the game on the back of a much-needed 1-0 Premier League victory over Wolves, their first league win of the campaign. That result eased some early-season tension and serves as the perfect warm-up for what feels like one of the club’s biggest fixtures in recent memory.

The Magpies have endured a difficult time in the Champions League in recent years, winning just one of their last eight matches in the competition (D3, L4). Encouragingly, that sole win came at home against PSG in their previous campaign, a reminder that St James’ Park has the capacity to inspire big European nights. With six victories from their last eight home games across all competitions, Newcastle know they must harness the backing of their fans to trouble one of Europe’s giants.

Barcelona, meanwhile, arrive in fine form. The reigning La Liga champions remain unbeaten after four matches this season (W3, D1), their most recent outing a resounding 6-0 win over Valencia. With domestic duties balanced, the Catalans now begin their 30th successive season in the Champions League. Their track record on opening night is formidable, losing just three of their 29 prior matchday one fixtures (W20, D6). That consistency underlines why they are regarded as favourites to progress deep into this year’s competition.

História do confronto direto

This fixture rekindles an old European rivalry, with Barcelona dominating the four previous competitive meetings (W3, L1). The Catalan giants have also fared particularly well against English opposition, winning 12 of their last 16 Champions League games against Premier League clubs (D2, L2). Newcastle will therefore need to defy history if they are to start their campaign positively.

Estatísticas e sequências quentes

• Only one of Newcastle’s last seven competitive matches has seen both teams score.
• The Magpies conceded more than once in just one of their last ten European home games.
• Barcelona’s eight Champions League league-phase matches last season averaged over five goals per game.
• Barcelona have scored after half-time in six consecutive Champions League away games.

Key Players to Watch and Missing Players

Newcastle’s summer signing Nick Woltemade made an immediate impact by scoring on his debut at the weekend, with his recent scoring record suggesting he could strike early.

His presence adds a fresh dimension to Howe’s attack, particularly with Yoane Wissa unavailable. Anthony Gordon, suspended domestically, is available here and could be a key creative outlet.

For Barcelona, Marcus Rashford stands out. He has been directly involved in eight goals across 11 career starts against Newcastle (G5, A3), including four contributions in six starts at St James’ Park.

His record against the Magpies suggests he could play a decisive role once again. Xavi, however, faces injury concerns, with Lamine Yamal, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi all absent from their weekend clash and doubtful for this fixture.

Previsão

Newcastle will be buoyed by their home support and recent win, but the reality is that Barcelona remain far more experienced at this level and enter the contest in excellent form. The Magpies’ defensive resilience at home could make this a tighter affair than many expect, yet Barcelona’s attacking depth should prove decisive. Expect an entertaining match with goals, and while Newcastle may land a blow, the Catalans are tipped to edge it 2-1.

Prediction: Newcastle 1-2 Barcelona

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Newcastle vs Barcelona | UEFA Champions League 2025/26