UCL: Newcastle Set for Historic Clash with Barcelona at St James’ Park

St James’ Park will come alive tonight as Newcastle United welcome Spanish giants, Barcelona in their opening fixture of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League campaign.

The encounter is billed as one of the most anticipated matches of the group stage, rekindling memories of Newcastle’s famous 3–2 win over Barça in 1997, when Faustino Asprilla’s hat-trick stunned Europe.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has described the match as “magical,” emphasizing the significance of returning to Europe’s biggest stage after missing out last season.

He highlighted the importance of a strong start, particularly against an opponent with Barcelona’s pedigree. “We know the history and the expectation,” Howe said. “Our focus is to match their quality with energy and discipline.”

Barcelona arrive under coach Hansi Flick, who is seeking to restore the club’s European dominance after last season’s semi-final exit.

However, they face notable setbacks. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has been ruled out with a groin injury, while goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, midfielder Gavi, and defender Alejandro Balde remain unavailable.

Frenkie de Jong is also a doubt with a muscle problem, potentially weakening their midfield options.

For Newcastle, there is better news. Anthony Gordon returns to the squad, with Harvey Barnes and summer signing Nick Woltemade also expected to feature. However, Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey are sidelined through injury.

The atmosphere at St James’ Park is expected to be electric, with fans eager to inspire the Magpies in their first Champions League game since 2023.

Observers believe the battle will hinge on Newcastle’s ability to disrupt Barcelona’s possession play and take advantage of the visitors’ injury concerns.

Kick-off is set for 8:00 p.m. BST, with Swedish referee Glenn Nyberg officiating and Frenchman Jérôme Brisard overseeing VAR duties.

For both clubs, the match represents more than three points—it is a test of character, history, and ambition on Europe’s grandest stage.