Newcastle vs Barcelona Predictions: 18.09.2025 - Champions League Betting Tips

Newcastle vs Barcelona

Newcastle host Barcelona for their opening Champions League match in what looks to be a mouth-watering tie. With the La Liga champions heading into this fixture on the back of a 6-0 win against Valencia, Eddie Howe's side will have to be at their best if they want to collect any points from this match. Nathan Joyes runs us through both sides and provides his best bet.

Tough times for the Toon

It has been a slow, sluggish start to the Premier League campaign for Newcastle.

After finally losing Alexander Isak to Liverpool, Eddie Howe needs to get his team back on track - and that means finding a system where his team can produce goals.

And after failing to win any of their first three matches, Newcastle did record a narrow 1-0 win against Wolves - albeit against a side that isn't pulling up any trees at present. Much more will be required if they are to progress in the Champions League.

It goes without saying, but Barcelona will be their biggest test so far - and this could be a long evening for the Toon Army.

Barca looking strong

Barcelona head into this fixture having put six past Valencia. That was win number three from a possible four in La Liga for the reigning champions, and now its time to showcase their ability in a different competition.

It is, however, worth pointing out it hasn't been easy for Barcelona away from home. Having gone 2-0 down against Levante on the road, a last gasp own goal sealed all three points after a much better second half.

They weren't able to do the same against Rayo Vallecano, who held the Spanish giants to a 1-1 draw.

Barcelona's squad is stacked with talent - but away from home - against a more physical side, it could be a tough evening for them at St. James' Park.

Newcastle vs Barcelona H2H

It has been 22 years since these two sides last met. Barcelona won both matches in the Champions League group stage on that occasion thanks to goals from Patrick Kluivert and Thiago Motta at St. James' Park. Newcastle, however, did beat the Spanish outfit in this competition - on home soil - back in 1997.

Our Newcastle vs Barcelona betting tip

With Newcastle still finding their feet, and with Barcelona producing plenty of goals, the Spanish are expected to pick up the three points. Nathan Joyes explains whether he believes that will happen or not.

Newcastle to make it tricky

On paper, Barcelona should win. They head into this contest in good spirits after hammering Valencia, while Newcastle need to show more if this season is to be a success.

Yet there have been glimpses from Howe's side that they can trouble teams and pick up points. Their performance against Liverpool at home - with 10 men - was very promising.

And Barcelona won't enjoy the atmosphere - or the weather - and it could be a tricky little outing for them. They won't be used to facing a side like Newcastle, and this is a huge night for the hosts.

Throw in the three goals Barcelona have conceded on their travels from two matches, that gives Newcastle fans hope. Yes, they don't have Isak - but they have shown enough to cause Barcelona's defence problems.

And with that in mind, it makes sense to Barcelona double chance and over 2.5 match goals.

TIP: Barcelona double chance and over 2.5 match goals with BetMGM.

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