Newcastle vs Athletic Bilbao: Predictions, Team News, Betting Tips and Odds for Bet Builder
Newcastle United will face Athletic Bilbao in a crucial UEFA Champions League match on November 5. The match will take place at St James’ Park in Newcastle, with kickoff scheduled for 8 PM GMT.
Match Preview
Newcastle is looking to bounce back after a disappointing 3-1 defeat against West Ham. This defeat contrasted sharply with their solid performance just four days earlier, where they defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in the EFL Cup. Manager Eddie Howe emphasized the need for his team to regain their energy and physicality as they target a third consecutive Champions League victory.
The Magpies currently sit atop their Champions League group with six points after three matches. They achieved a convincing 3-0 victory over Benfica in their previous home match. In contrast, Athletic Bilbao has struggled this season, managing only two wins in their last 11 games. They recently celebrated a 3-1 win against Qarabag but have not secured an away victory since August.
Key Statistics
- Newcastle has won their last four home matches.
- Seven of Newcastle’s last eight home games featured less than four goals.
- Athletic Bilbao has only one clean sheet in their last 12 fixtures.
- Bilbao has lost four of their last five away games.
- Bilbao has conceded the first goal in their last three matches.
Team News
Newcastle’s Kieran Trippier and Anthony Gordon’s availability is still uncertain due to injuries. However, players like Yoane Wissa, Tino Livramento, and Harrison Ashby are confirmed absentees. A possible starting lineup for Newcastle could be:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Pope |
| DEF | Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Burn |
| MID | Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton |
| FWD | Murphy, Woltemade, Gordon |
Athletic Bilbao will be without key player Iñaki Williams, sidelined until 2026. Their starting formation might be:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Simon |
| DEF | Gorosabel, Paredes, Laporte, Berchiche |
| MID | Rego, Jauregizar |
| FWD | N. Williams, Sancet, Berenguer, Guruzeta |
Betting Predictions
Betting odds indicate Newcastle as favorites at 1-2, while Athletic Bilbao stands at 11-2 for a win. A draw is available at 16-5. Here are some recommended betting strategies:
- Best Bet: Newcastle to win and under 3.5 goals.
- Player Card Prediction: Dan Burn to be carded.
- Longshot: Newcastle to win 2-0.
As this key Champions League match approaches, Newcastle will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and secure a solid victory against a struggling Athletic Bilbao side.
