Newcastle United vs Benfica: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Explore Bwin's detailed preview for Newcastle United vs Benfica in the Champions League. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 20:00 BST match.

• Fixture: Newcastle United vs Benfica

• Date: Tuesday, 21 October 2025

• Kick-off: 20:00 BST

• Venue: St. James' Park

Match Prediction: Newcastle United 2-1 Benfica

Newcastle United, buoyed by a convincing 4-0 victory over Union Saint-Gilloise, will look to exploit their attacking prowess against Benfica. Their recent loss to Barcelona, however, suggests vulnerabilities that Benfica might target, particularly in defensive transitions. Benfica, despite a mixed bag of results, showed resilience in their win against Fenerbahçe and a solid defensive display against Nice, indicating they could pose a threat on the counter.

The game is likely to be closely contested, with Newcastle's home advantage potentially tipping the scales. Benfica's ability to grind out results, as seen in their recent performances, could make this a tight affair. Expect a tactical battle where Newcastle's offensive momentum meets Benfica's disciplined approach.

Newcastle’s recent form has been a blend of dominance and vulnerability. Their 4-0 thrashing of Union Saint-Gilloise showcased their attacking flair and ability to control games, which could be crucial against Benfica. However, the 1-2 loss to FC Barcelona at home highlights areas where they need to tighten up defensively, especially against a team like Benfica that can exploit weaknesses.

Recent Champions League Results:

• Win: 4-0 vs Union Saint-Gilloise (A)

• Loss: 1-2 vs FC Barcelona (H)

Benfica's recent results indicate a team capable of both resilience and inconsistency. Their ability to secure a win against Fenerbahçe at home and a clean sheet against Nice suggests a solid defensive foundation, which could be key in this match.

However, losses to Chelsea and Qarabağ show that they can struggle against strong opposition, which might be a concern against a motivated Newcastle side.

Recent Champions League Results:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Chelsea (A)

• Loss: 2-3 vs Qarabağ (H)

• Win: 1-0 vs Fenerbahçe (H)

• Draw: 0-0 vs Fenerbahçe (A)

• Win: 2-0 vs Nice (H)

Newcastle United and Benfica have never faced each other in the Champions League, leaving this match as an intriguing unknown. Both teams will need to rely on their current form and tactical setups to gain an edge. This lack of historical data adds an element of unpredictability to the encounter.

• Yoane Wissa (Knee) - Out

• Tino Livramento (Knee) - Out

• Lewis Hall (Hamstring) - Out

• Jacob Ramsey (Ankle) - Doubt

• Bruma (Achilles) - Out

• Georgiy Sudakov (Shoulder) - Doubt

• Manu (Cruciate Ligament) - Doubt

• Alexander Bah (Cruciate Ligament) - Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Pope, Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Burn, Guimarães, Tonali, Joelinton, Elanga, Woltemade, Gordon

Newcastle's predicted lineup suggests a focus on maintaining possession and attacking fluidity, with players like Tonali and Guimarães pivotal in midfield. Their recent form indicates a need for defensive solidity, which Botman and Thiaw will be crucial in providing.

• Predicted lineup: Trubin, Dedić, Otamendi, Silva, Dahl, Ríos, Barrenechea, Aursnes, Lukébakio, Pavlidis, Sudakov

Benfica's lineup hints at a balanced approach, with Silva and Otamendi anchoring the defence. Their recent performances suggest a reliance on counter-attacks, with players like Lukébakio and Pavlidis likely to be key in exploiting any gaps left by Newcastle's forward push.

• Anthony Gordon vs Amar Dedić: This matchup will see Newcastle's forward Gordon testing Benfica's defensive resolve on Newcastle’s left.

• Sandro Tonali vs Enzo Barrenechea: Tonali’s midfield creativity will be crucial for Newcastle, while Barrenechea’s versatility could disrupt the home side’s rhythm.

• Nick Woltemade (Newcastle United): Woltemade's recent performances suggest he could be a vital part of Newcastle's attacking threat.

• Richard Ríos (Benfica): Ríos's ability to control the midfield and initiate attacks makes him a key player for Benfica.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.