Newcastle vs Benfica Prediction Champions League 21.10.2025


Newcastle vs Benfica Prediction Champions League
Newcastle vs Benfica Prediction and Betting Tips for Matchday 3 of the Champions League on Tuesday, October 21. The Magpies return to St James’ Park after a thrilling 4-0 victory over Union SG, hoping to continue their European charge. Benfica, meanwhile, arrive winless in the competition but fresh from a 2-0 domestic cup success. In this article, you’ll discover Soccer Stats and insights to guide your betting decisions.
- Newcastle aim to secure consecutive Champions League wins for the first time since 2003.
- Benfica are still searching for their first point in this season’s Champions League.
- Eddie Howe’s Magpies must shake off a recent Premier League loss before facing Benfica.
- Key absences for both sides could influence defensive stability on Tuesday.
Newcastle’s season began with a 2-1 defeat to Barcelona, with Marcus Rashford’s brace proving decisive. That said, their emphatic win in Brussels boosted morale and opened the door to a potential knockout-stage run, something the club has never achieved in the Champions League. Eddie Howe’s squad faces a tricky task though, recovering from Saturday’s 2-1 loss at Brighton, which halted a short winning streak in the Premier League.
The Magpies will have to manage without Tino Livramento, sidelined for eight weeks, and Lewis Hall, still nursing a hamstring injury. Dan Burn and Kieran Trippier are expected to cover the full-back spots, while Fabian Schar could return in central defence. Up front, Anthony Gordon leads the Champions League scoring with three goals, supported by Nick Woltemade’s impressive tally across all competitions. Can Howe maintain this momentum at home?
Benfica are navigating an uneven start under Jose Mourinho, who has now won three matches since taking charge in mid-September. Their 2-0 cup win over Chaves ended a brief winless spell, but European struggles continue, with two defeats in as many Champions League matches. Pavlidis has scored four in his last four appearances, offering a glimmer of hope, yet the Portuguese giants have historically struggled on English soil, winning only one of their last nine away games against English sides in Europe.
Tuesday’s clash promises a tactical battle, with Newcastle seeking to bounce back and Benfica desperate to secure a first point in the group. Defensive injuries and squad rotations could be pivotal. Still, Newcastle’s home form, scoring consistency, and recent European performance make them slight favorites. For bettors and fans, these Soccer Stats underline why the Magpies are well-placed to maintain their Champions League charge.
Jose Mourinho has a deep affection for Newcastle United, a sentiment rooted in his close bond with the late Sir Bobby Robson. Serving as Robson’s interpreter and assistant in the 1990s, Mourinho developed a profound respect for the club and its values. Returning to St James’ Park with Benfica in the Champions League, he describes himself as a “little Magpie,” reflecting his enduring admiration and emotional connection to the Tyneside club. Source: bbc.com.
Newcastle have shown resilience in the Champions League so far, bouncing back from a narrow 2-1 defeat to Barcelona with a commanding 4-0 win over Union SG. At St James’ Park, the Magpies have historically performed well in Europe, winning six of their last 10 home matches in the competition. Key players like Anthony Gordon and Nick Woltemade are in fine form, providing reliable attacking options. Benfica, on the other hand, have struggled away from home in European tournaments, winning just one of their last nine matches in England. Injuries to Newcastle’s full-backs are manageable with experienced replacements stepping in, while Benfica still contend with absences in defense and midfield. Considering Newcastle’s scoring consistency, strong home advantage, and Benfica’s poor record on English soil, a home victory looks most likely. The Magpies can build momentum and extend their winning streak if they control possession and press effectively.