Newcastle vs Barcelona predictions for Tuesday’s Champions League clash at St James’ Park. Read on for our full match preview and betting tips.
Barcelona to Win
11/8
Correct Score: Barcelona 2-1
17/2
Lamine Yamal Anytime Goalscorer
15/8
Newcastle face huge European test
Newcastle welcome Barcelona to St James’ Park for a blockbuster Champions League encounter, but Eddie Howe’s side arrive in mixed form after a difficult run of results.
The Magpies were knocked out of another cup competition at the weekend following a 3-1 defeat to Manchester City, meaning they have now lost three of their last five matches in all competitions. Two of those defeats have come at home, which is an unusual trend for a team normally so strong in front of their own supporters.
Newcastle have still managed to score consistently, though. They have found the net in 12 consecutive matches, suggesting they remain dangerous going forward even when results aren’t going their way.
However, against a Barcelona side packed with attacking quality, defensive lapses could prove costly.
Barcelona in strong form
Barcelona travel to England in confident mood after extending their winning streak to four matches with a victory at Athletic Bilbao at the weekend.
That run has helped them build a healthy lead at the top of La Liga, and Hansi Flick’s side also showed their European pedigree during the league phase of the Champions League.
The Spanish giants already defeated Newcastle earlier in the season and will believe they can take control of this tie with a first-leg victory on Tyneside.
Barcelona’s attacking play has been particularly impressive recently, with 11 goals scored across their last four games.
Yamal continuing breakout campaign
One player who continues to shine for Barcelona is teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
The winger scored the decisive goal against Athletic Bilbao last weekend and is enjoying a remarkable scoring run. Yamal has netted nine times in his last 11 appearances across all competitions and looks increasingly influential in Barcelona’s attacking setup.
With his pace and creativity, he could cause Newcastle serious problems on the counter attack.
Newcastle vs Barcelona predictions
Newcastle rarely fail to score at home, but Barcelona’s quality and current form make them difficult to oppose here.
Backing the visitors to edge a competitive contest looks the best option, with a 2-1 Barcelona victory appealing in the correct score market.
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