Newcastle United will be aiming to secure back-to-back Champions League victories for the first time since 2003 when they host Benfica on Tuesday.
The Magpies bounced back impressively from an opening group stage defeat with a superb win on matchday two. However, they now face a Benfica side managed by José Mourinho. The Portuguese giants are desperate for their first points after a difficult start to the group.
Newcastle United vs Benfica – Match Preview and Team News
- Date: Tuesday, 21 October 2025
- Kick-off: 8:00 pm BST
- Venue: St. James’ Park, Newcastle
- Referee: Szymon Marciniak
- VAR: Tomasz Kwiatkowski
- Last Meeting: Benfica 3-2 Newcastle United, 26 Jul 2022, Club Friendly
Team News
Newcastle United
Eddie Howe faces several selection issues, particularly in midfield. Both Joelinton (knock) and Sandro Tonali (illness) are doubts for the match. Consequently, Jacob Ramsey is pushing for his first start since returning from injury. Unfortunately, the team also remain without Lewis Hall, Tino Livramento, and Yoane Wissa.
Benfica
José Mourinho has a relatively settled squad for the trip to England. The visitors remain without Alexander Bah, Manu Silva, and Bruma through injury. However, they have reported no new concerns following their domestic cup win at the weekend. Up front, star striker Vangelis Pavlidis is in excellent form and will lead the line.
Form
Newcastle United
The Magpies have had a mixed start to their Champions League campaign. They first lost to Barcelona before responding with a fantastic 4-0 win over Union Saint-Gilloise. However, their domestic form is a slight concern, as they suffered a Premier League defeat to Brighton last weekend. Furthermore, Newcastle have lost their last three Champions League games played at St. James’ Park.
Benfica
Benfica have endured a nightmare start to their European campaign, losing to both Chelsea and Barcelona. As a result, they sit bottom of the group without a point. While they did secure a morale-boosting cup win at the weekend, their record in England is historically poor. In fact, they have won just one of their last nine away games against English teams in Europe.
Predicted Lineups
Newcastle United predicted XI: Pope; Trippier, Schär, Botman, Burn; Longstaff, Guimarães, Ramsey; Gordon, Woltemade, Murphy
Benfica predicted XI: Trubin; Dedić, António Silva, Otamendi, Dahl; Rios, Barrenechea; Lukebakio, Sudakov, Aursnes; Pavlidis
How to watch Newcastle United vs Benfica?
Fans in the UK can watch the match live on TNT Sports. Coverage begins at 7:30 pm BST. Additionally, subscribers can stream the fixture via the Discovery+ app.
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