UCL: Things to know as Newcastle take on Barcelona at St James’ Park

Newcastle United will welcome Spanish giants FC Barcelona to St James’ Park on Wednesday night in what promises to be a high-stakes Champions League showdown. The fixture marks the opening matchday of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League League Phase, with both teams aiming to begin their campaigns with maximum points.

For Newcastle, it’s a return to Europe’s elite competition after missing out last season, while Barcelona come into the contest with high expectations, despite a number of injury concerns.

Current Form

Newcastle United

The Magpies have had a mixed start to the Premier League season. While they’ve shown moments of defensive resilience and a recent home win over Wolves gave fans a boost, inconsistency in attack remains a concern. Eddie Howe’s side will look to channel the energy of a packed St James’ Park to unsettle the Spanish visitors.

Barcelona

Barcelona have started strongly in La Liga, including a dominant 6-0 win over Valencia. Despite injuries to key players, the Catalans have looked sharp in front of goal and will be confident of taking points on the road. However, their defense has shown vulnerabilities that Newcastle could look to exploit.

Head-to-Head Record

–        This will be the fifth competitive meeting between the two sides.

–        Barcelona have won three of the previous four encounters.

–        Newcastle have won once.

–        Their last meeting came in March 2003, with Barcelona winning 2-0 at St James’ Park.

–        Barcelona also boast a solid record against English teams in Europe, winning 12 of their last 16 encounters with Premier League opposition.

Team News

Barcelona Absentees:

Lamine Yamal (groin)

Marc-André ter Stegen (knee)

Gavi (ACL)

Alejandro Balde (hamstring)

Doubtful: Frenkie de Jong (muscle) – included in squad but fitness will be assessed.

Read Also: Barcelona register Rashford for LaLiga opener against Mallorca

Newcastle Absentees:

Jacob Ramsey (ankle)

Yoane Wissa (knee)

Eddie Howe has a near full-strength squad apart from long-term injuries.

Expected Line-Ups

Newcastle United (4-3-3)

Pope; Trippier, Schär, Dan Burn, Livramento; Bruno Guimarães, Tonali, Joelinton; Elanga, Woltemade, Gordon

Barcelona (4-2-3-1)

Joan García; Koundé, Cubarsí, Eric García, Gerard Martín; Pedri, Casadó/De Jong; Raphinha, Fermin López, Rashford; Lewandowski

Key Players to Watch

Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona): The Polish striker remains one of Europe’s most prolific forwards and will be central to Barca’s attack.

Raphinha (Barcelona): In excellent form, capable of unlocking defenses with pace and creativity.

Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle): The heartbeat of Newcastle’s midfield, tasked with breaking Barca’s rhythm.

Anthony Gordon (Newcastle): In-form winger who could exploit Barca’s injury-hit left side.

Stats and Insights

–        Barcelona average 2.1 goals per game against English opposition in the Champions League.

–        Newcastle have only one win in their last eight European games, but they remain strong at home.

–        The Magpies have scored in all home matches this season.

–        Barcelona have scored 14 goals in their last five matches.

Betting Tips:

Barcelona to Win

Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Newcastle will be aggressive at home, Barca’s defense isn’t flawless.

Over 2.5 Goals –

Raphinha to score or assist

Prediction:

Newcastle 1–3 Barcelona

The post UCL: Things to know as Newcastle take on Barcelona at St James’ Park appeared first on Sporting Life.