The Champions League lights return to Tyneside, and Newcastle United mark their comeback to Europe’s top stage with a heavyweight clash against Barcelona on Thursday night.
Eddie Howe’s side are back in the big time, and they arrive at this tie with renewed confidence after new signing Nick Woltemade scored a towering debut goal against Wolves last weekend. The German striker is now tasked with carrying Newcastle’s frontline after the exit of Alexander Isak.
Barcelona, under Hansi Flick, arrive as La Liga champions and one of the favourites for the tournament. They crushed Valencia 6–0 at the weekend, with Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha both scoring braces. Barca want to finally end their 11-year wait for a Champions League trophy, and their firepower makes them serious contenders.
Newcastle vs Barcelona: Key Stats
Head-to-head: Newcastle 1 win, Barcelona 3 wins, 0 draws
Newcastle: 1 win in last 8 European matches (D3, L4)
Newcastle at home in Europe: 3 defeats in last 31 (W21, D7)
Barcelona: unbeaten in 12 of last 13 Champions League matches
Lewandowski: 9 goals in his last 7 UCL league phase matches
What to Expect From Both Teams
Newcastle United;
St James’ Park is the weapon. Howe’s men have rarely slipped up at home in Europe, and the atmosphere will be electric. Woltemade, Gordon, and Elanga will provide the pace and power up front, with Bruno Guimaraes pulling strings in midfield. Injuries to Jacob Ramsey and Yoane Wissa limit depth, but Newcastle will back their pressing and set-piece strength to unsettle Barca.
Barcelona;The Catalans are buzzing after that Valencia demolition. Lewandowski leads the line with ruthless form, while Raphinha’s pace and finishing remain decisive. Flick is without Yamal, Gavi, Balde, and Ter Stegen, but Marcus Rashford is an x-factor option on the wing. Barca’s record against English sides in the group stage is strong, and their attack can overwhelm any defence.
Predicted Lineups
Newcastle United (4-3-3) ⚫: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Livramento; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Elanga, Woltemade, Gordon
Barcelona (4-2-3-1) 🔵: J. Garcia; Kounde, E. Garcia, Cubarsi, Martin; Casado, Pedri; Raphinha, Fermin, Rashford; Lewandowski
Players and Matchups to Watch
🔹 Joelinton: Newcastle’s heartbeat in midfield.
🔹 Robert Lewandowski: Nine goals in seven league phase games — Europe’s ultimate predator.
🔹 Raphinha: Joint-top scorer last UCL season, relentless on the right.
🔹 Marcus Rashford: A point to prove after his Man United exit.
Odds Market on MSport
💵 Barcelona to win: 2.70
💵 Draw: 3.75
💵 Over 2.5 Goals: 1.75
💵 Lewandowski Anytime Goalscorer: 2.37
💵 Woltemade Anytime Goalscorer: 2.36
St James’ Park will be rocking, and Newcastle will believe they can upset an European giant. But Barcelona’s form, firepower, and Champions League pedigree make them slight favourites. If Woltemade and Joelinton inspire, the Magpies have a shot. If Lewandowski and Raphinha click, Barca’s class could tell.
