English Football League Cup: Newcastle United vs Arsenal Preview – February 5, 2025

English Football League Cup: Newcastle United vs Arsenal Preview – February 5, 2025



The English Football League Cup continues with a high-stakes clash as Newcastle United host Arsenal in the quarter-finals on February 5, 2025. With both teams eager to secure a spot in the next round, this fixture promises to be an exciting contest at St James' Park.

 

Event Details

  • Fixture: Newcastle United vs Arsenal
  • Date: Wednesday, February 5, 2025
  • Kick-Off Time: 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET / 21:00 CET
  • Venue: St James' Park, Newcastle, England
  • Broadcast & Live Stream:
    • UK: Sky Sports, BBC Sport
    • US: ESPN+, Paramount+
    • Worldwide: Available via regional broadcasters and streaming platforms



Team News

Newcastle United

Newcastle, under the guidance of Eddie Howe, have been a formidable force this season. Their recent performances in domestic and European competitions have showcased their attacking strength and defensive solidity.

  • Injuries/Suspensions:
    • Bruno Guimarรฃes: Doubtful due to a minor knock.
    • Alexander Isak: Recovering from a hamstring injury, fitness test pending.
    • Sven Botman: Ruled out with a long-term injury.
  • Key Players:
    • Kieran Trippier: Provides leadership and quality deliveries from the right flank.
    • Joelinton: A midfield powerhouse, effective in both attack and defense.
    • Callum Wilson: A crucial goal-scoring threat up front.

Arsenal

Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, have been title contenders this season. The Gunners will be looking to add silverware to their campaign by advancing in the League Cup.

  • Injuries/Suspensions:
    • Bukayo Saka: Minor injury, likely to feature.
    • Gabriel Jesus: Ruled out due to a knee injury.
    • Oleksandr Zinchenko: Doubtful after sustaining a knock in the last match.
  • Key Players:
    • Martin ร˜degaard: Arsenal’s creative maestro in midfield.
    • Declan Rice: A dominant force in midfield, controlling possession and breaking up attacks.
    • Gabriel Martinelli: A speedy and dangerous winger in attack.

 

Possible Lineups

Newcastle United (4-3-3):

  • Goalkeeper: Nick Pope
  • Defenders: Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schรคr, Dan Burn, Matt Targett
  • Midfielders: Joelinton, Sean Longstaff, Bruno Guimarรฃes
  • Forwards: Miguel Almirรณn, Callum Wilson, Anthony Gordon

Arsenal (4-2-3-1):

  • Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale
  • Defenders: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhรฃes, Takehiro Tomiyasu
  • Midfielders: Declan Rice, Jorginho
  • Attacking Midfielders: Bukayo Saka, Martin ร˜degaard, Gabriel Martinelli
  • Forward: Eddie Nketiah

 

Playing Ground: St James' Park

St James' Park, home to Newcastle United, is known for its electric atmosphere. The passionate home fans will create a challenging environment for Arsenal, making it a thrilling contest.

 

Head-to-Head Record

  • Total Matches: 190
  • Arsenal Wins: 84
  • Newcastle Wins: 67
  • Draws: 39

Arsenal have historically had the upper hand in this fixture, but Newcastle's recent resurgence makes this an unpredictable encounter.

 

Match Preview

Newcastle's Tactical Approach

Newcastle will rely on their defensive discipline and quick counterattacks. With Trippier's crosses and Wilson's finishing ability, they pose a serious threat.

Arsenal's Strategy

Arsenal will aim to dominate possession and break down Newcastle’s defense with their intricate passing. ร˜degaard and Saka will be pivotal in unlocking the hosts’ backline.

 

Key Battles

  1. Martin ร˜degaard vs. Bruno Guimarรฃes: A midfield battle that could dictate the game's tempo.
  2. Bukayo Saka vs. Matt Targett: Saka’s pace against Targett’s defensive abilities.
  3. Callum Wilson vs. William Saliba: A physical battle between a top striker and a solid defender.

 

Betting Odds & Predictions

  • Newcastle Win: 5/2
  • Arsenal Win: 11/10
  • Draw: 9/4

Arsenal are slight favorites, but Newcastle's home advantage and fighting spirit could make this a closely contested match. A 2-1 victory for Arsenal seems a likely outcome.

 

How to Watch

United Kingdom:

  • Sky Sports Football
  • BBC Sport

United States:

  • ESPN+
  • Paramount+

Global:

  • Check regional broadcasters for live streaming options.

 

Conclusion

Newcastle United vs. Arsenal in the English Football League Cup promises to be a thrilling encounter. While Arsenal’s attacking quality makes them favorites, Newcastle’s resilience and home crowd support could lead to a potential upset. Fans should prepare for an intense and entertaining match at St James' Park on February 5, 2025.