Newcastle United is set to host five-time Champions League winners Barcelona in their UEFA Champions League league phase opener on Thursday, September 18, 2025. Barcelona will face this critical match without key superstar Lamine Yamal, who is sidelined due to a groin injury. Newcastle enters this encounter on a strong note, having remained unbeaten in three of their last four matches, setting the stage for an intriguing battle.
Match Details & Betting Odds
The highly anticipated match kicks off at 3 p.m. ET from St. James` Park in Tyne, England. The latest betting odds for the 90-minute money line position Newcastle as the +155 favorites (a $100 bet could win $155), while Barcelona is listed as the +160 underdog. A draw is priced at +270. The over/under for total goals in the match is set at 3.5. Individual player odds suggest Robert Lewandowski of Barcelona is +170 to score a goal, and Newcastle`s Anthony Gordon is -155 to record at least one shot on target.
Expert Analysis and Picks
Before kickoff, SportsLine soccer expert Jon Eimer has provided his top picks and detailed analysis for the Newcastle vs. Barcelona fixture:
Key Match Information
- Date: Thursday, Sept. 18
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
Jon Eimer`s Best Bets
- Barcelona Over 1.5 team total (-122)
- Raphinha to score or assist (-115)
Rationale for Barcelona Over 1.5 Team Total (-122)
Eimer acknowledges the current discussion around Newcastle`s defensive solidity, noting their three clean sheets in four Premier League matches. However, he offers a critical perspective: “This becomes less impressive, however, when you look at how they stopped from scoring. They kept Aston Villa, Wolves and Leeds from scoring. These are currently three of the worst offensive outfits in the entire Premier League.” Eimer predicts that Newcastle`s defensive line will struggle against Barcelona`s formidable attack, expecting “the cracks to show” as they attempt to contain a team that he believes “can`t be slowed.”
Rationale for Raphinha to Score or Assist (-115)
Regarding Barcelona`s attacking prowess, Eimer states: “Barcelona will be without the services of one of the best talents in the world, Lamine Yamal… While this is a big blow to the squad, I frankly, don`t think it will impact this squad as much as people are expecting.” He emphasizes the team`s significant attacking depth, featuring players like Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres, Fermin Lopez, and Pedri, all of whom are expected to contribute to goal-scoring under manager Hansi Flick`s offensive philosophy. Specifically, Eimer highlights Raphinha, who is coming off a strong Champions League season and is anticipated to continue his impactful performance.
