This article provides a full Newcastle vs Barcelona preview ahead of a special Champions League night at St. James’ Park on Thursday. The two clubs face off for the first time since 2003, with the hosts hoping to replicate their famous 1997 victory over the Catalan giants.
Backed by a fervent home crowd, Eddie Howe’s side will look to build on the performance that overwhelmed Paris Saint-Germain in a similar fixture last October. However, they face a Barcelona team brimming with confidence after putting six goals past Valencia at the weekend.
Team news and lineups
Newcastle have been boosted by the return of Anthony Gordon, who is available for selection after serving a domestic suspension and is expected to lead the line. The Magpies will, however, be without new signings Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey due to injury.
Barcelona’s injury woes continue as they travel without superstar Lamine Yamal (groin). Gavi, Alejandro Balde, and goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen also haven’t travelled. On the bright side, Frenkie de Jong is fit again, while Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski are expected to return to the starting XI.
Newcastle predicted lineup (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Schär, Burn, Livramento; Guimarães, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Gordon, Barnes.
Barcelona predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): García; Koundé, Araújo, Cubarsí, Martín; De Jong, Pedri; Raphinha, López, Rashford; Lewandowski.
Score prediction
Eddie Howe is an excellent game-planner, and his side will lean on their physical supremacy to make life difficult for the visitors. However, this Barcelona team, even with key absences, possesses a level of technical quality and attacking speed that could prove too much to handle. A high-scoring affair that eventually sees Hansi Flick’s side prevail is expected. The match will serve as a true benchmark for Newcastle’s European ambitions.
Prediction: Newcastle 2–4 Barcelona