Newcastle United vs Barcelona: Match Preview, Latest Team News and How to Watch | OneFootball

Newcastle United face Barcelona in Champions League showdown

Newcastle United return to the UEFA Champions League spotlight this evening with a clash against five-time winners Barcelona at St James’ Park. After finishing eighth two seasons ago, the Magpies forced their way back into Europe with a top-five Premier League finish last term, and this match marks the start of their latest continental journey.

The atmosphere in Tyneside is expected to be intense, with Eddie Howe’s men eager to prove themselves at the highest level once again. This fixture is one of eight league phase matches, with Bayer Leverkusen, Benfica and Athletic Club also lined up as opponents.

Kick-off time and where to watch

Newcastle United vs Barcelona kicks off at 8pm BST on Thursday 18 September 2025 at St James’ Park. Coverage begins on TNT Sports 1 from 7pm, with live streaming available to subscribers via Discovery+.

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Team news from Newcastle and Barcelona

Eddie Howe faces mixed fortunes in his squad. New summer arrivals Jacob Ramsey and Yoane Wissa will miss out through injury, while Anthony Gordon returns after serving a domestic suspension during the recent 1-0 win at Wolves. That victory was secured by debutant Nick Woltemade, who scored the decisive goal.

Barcelona arrive with selection concerns of their own. Raphinha was dropped to the bench against Valencia after being late for a team meeting, with Roony Bardghji starting in his place. However, the Brazilian remains an option from the outset at St James’. The Catalan side will be without teenage talent Lamine Yamal, as well as Gavi and Alejandro Balde, who are both recovering from injuries. Frenkie de Jong has travelled, while Marc-Andre ter Stegen is still recovering from back surgery and will be sidelined until later in the year.

Prediction for Newcastle vs Barcelona

This meeting feels balanced, particularly with Barcelona missing key players. Newcastle United will believe that the fervent St James’ Park crowd can push them to another memorable European night, much like the 4-1 triumph over Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.

Barcelona remain formidable opponents with quality throughout their squad, but the absence of Lamine Yamal is significant. Howe’s men are resilient at home and have the pace to trouble the visitors. A score draw looks the likeliest outcome, with 2-2 a fair prediction.

Head-to-head record

The history of this fixture is limited but memorable. Nearly three decades ago, Faustino Asprilla lit up Tyneside with a stunning hat-trick in a 3-2 victory over Barcelona, a result etched into Newcastle folklore. Since then, the Spanish giants have asserted dominance.

Newcastle United will hope to tip the balance in their favour as Champions League football once again electrifies the north-east.