A magical Champions League evening awaits at St. James’ Park on Thursday, as Newcastle United welcome Barcelona in their opening group-stage fixture.
The two historic clubs, linked through the legendary Sir Bobby Robson’s managerial legacy, are meeting for the first time since 2003. Yet, it’s their inaugural encounter that resonates most on Tyneside.
Back in September 1997, Faustino Asprilla’s iconic hat-trick inspired the Magpies to a thrilling 3–2 victory over a star-studded Barça side featuring Luis Figo, Rivaldo, and Luis Enrique.
Today’s version of the Catalan giants possesses equal star quality, with Hansi Flick’s squad showing their ruthless side at the weekend in a 6–0 demolition of Valencia. Still, the start of their 2025–26 campaign has been shrouded in off-field drama and uncertainty.
Newcastle have endured their own storylines, with the anger around Alexander Isak’s move to Liverpool gradually fading. Eddie Howe’s team are back in Europe’s elite competition after one year out, hoping to produce another inspired performance like their memorable triumph over PSG in October 2023.
Anthony Gordon’s domestic suspension concludes after this weekend, but the forward is available for European duty. Despite Nick Woltemade scoring on his debut last time out, Howe could call upon Gordon to lead the line against Barça.
Harvey Barnes provides pace from the left flank, while Jacob Murphy’s defensive discipline may see him start over Anthony Elanga. New signing Yoane Wissa is sidelined with a knee issue, while fellow summer arrival Jacob Ramsey also remains unavailable.
Barcelona are again missing Lamine Yamal through a groin injury, with the youngster reportedly aggravating it during Spain duty in September. The talented winger was vital in last season’s Champions League run.
Key figures Gavi, Alejandro Balde, and goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen have not travelled either, though Frenkie de Jong has returned to action after injury. The Dutch midfielder sat out the rout of Valencia last Sunday.
Marc Bernal featured for the first time in over a year at the weekend after an ACL tear, but he remains behind Pedri, Casadó, and De Jong in the midfield hierarchy. Meanwhile, Raphinha—dropped for lateness—still netted twice off the bench and should reclaim his starting spot, along with Robert Lewandowski.
Newcastle vs. Barcelona Score Prediction
Could someone emulate Asprilla’s magic for Newcastle on Thursday? Howe’s men have proven their mettle against Europe’s elite, and their physical edge will be crucial under the lights.
The Newcastle boss is a meticulous strategist, likely to devise tactical surprises to frustrate the visitors. Yet, Barcelona’s technical brilliance, fluid midfield, and attacking speed may ultimately be too much to handle.
Despite imperfections early in the season, Flick’s side remain formidable. Expect an open contest, but Barça’s superior quality should see them edge a high-scoring thriller.
