Newcastle United vs Benfica – UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Match Preview and Details

 




Football fans are in for a treat tonight as Newcastle United welcome Benfica to St. James’ Park for a thrilling encounter in the third round of the UEFA Champions League group stage. The match is set to kick off at 10:00 PM (Cairo and Mecca time) on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, and will be broadcast live on beIN Sports 6, with commentary by Abdullah Al-Ghamdi.

Match Overview

This clash marks a crucial moment for both sides in their European campaigns. Newcastle United, playing in front of their passionate home crowd, are looking to secure their second victory in the group stage. The Magpies know that three points tonight would greatly strengthen their chances of qualifying for the Round of 16.

Their opponents, Benfica, arrive in England determined to get their campaign back on track after a disappointing start. The Portuguese giants, known for their attacking style and European pedigree, are still searching for their first win in this season’s group stage and will be eager to turn their fortunes around against a resilient Newcastle side.

Team Form and Key Players

Under the guidance of Eddie Howe, Newcastle have shown great promise in both the Premier League and Europe. Their combination of physical strength, quick transitions, and home support makes them a formidable force at St. James’ Park. Expect stars like Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimarães, and Anthony Gordon to play pivotal roles in the attack, while Kieran Trippier and Sven Botman anchor the defense.

Benfica, coached by Roger Schmidt, boast a technically gifted lineup capable of challenging any opponent. Striker Ángel Di María brings invaluable experience, while Rafa Silva and João Neves add creativity and dynamism in midfield. The Portuguese side will rely on their sharp passing and quick counterattacks to exploit spaces left by Newcastle’s aggressive pressing style.

What’s at Stake

With the group stage heating up, both teams are fully aware of the importance of this match.

  • A win for Newcastle United would put them in a strong position to advance to the knockout rounds.

  • A victory for Benfica, on the other hand, would revive their campaign and restore confidence after a slow start.

The atmosphere at St. James’ Park is expected to be electric, as Newcastle fans create one of the most intimidating environments in European football.

Match Details

  • Fixture: Newcastle United vs Benfica

  • Competition: UEFA Champions League 2025/26 – Group Stage (Round 3)

  • Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2025

  • Time: 10:00 PM (Cairo & Mecca Time)

  • Venue: St. James’ Park, Newcastle, England

  • Broadcast: beIN Sports 6

  • Commentator: Abdullah Al-Ghamdi

Prediction

Both teams have plenty of attacking quality, but Newcastle’s home advantage and physical intensity could make the difference. Benfica, however, are dangerous on the break and cannot be underestimated.

Predicted Score: Newcastle United 2–1 Benfica

Key Players to Watch

  • Newcastle United: Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimarães, Kieran Trippier

  • Benfica: Ángel Di María, Rafa Silva, João Neves

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