Newcastle vs Tottenham

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09/01/24 • 35 Views • 0 Share • Published in Sports

Livestream Newcastle vs Tottenham

Anticipation is building as Newcastle United prepares to face Tottenham Hotspur at St. James' Park for their third encounter in the 2024–25 Premier League season. Both teams are level on four points from their first two games, setting the stage for what promises to be an intense and action-packed match with significant implications for both sides.

A Rollercoaster Start for Newcastle

After a disappointing 2023–24 season, which saw Newcastle finish seventh and miss out on European qualification, manager Eddie Howe would have hoped for a more straightforward start to the new campaign. However, the opening games have been anything but easy for the Magpies. Despite securing four points from a possible six, Newcastle currently sits in seventh place, just behind Tottenham on goal difference.

Newcastle's season began on August 17 with a gritty 1-0 victory over newly-promoted Southampton. However, the match was far from smooth sailing. Newcastle was reduced to ten men early on when Fabian Schar was sent off in the 28th minute. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Newcastle managed to secure the win, thanks to Joelinton's goal just before halftime, capitalizing on a mistake by Southampton's goalkeeper Alex McCarthy. The match, however, highlighted the challenges facing Newcastle, as they had to dig deep to hold onto their lead.

In their second match, a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth on August 25, Newcastle once again struggled to find their rhythm. Bournemouth's Dango Ouattara was sent off in the second half for a handball, but Newcastle failed to make the most of the extra man. Joelinton was again at the center of controversy, narrowly avoiding a red card for a late challenge on Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto.

Between these Premier League fixtures, Newcastle also faced Nottingham Forest in the EFL Cup's second round. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Newcastle advancing 4-3 on penalties. The performance, however, raised concerns about their ability to finish off games, a recurring issue in their early-season matches.

Defensive Issues and Injury Problems

Newcastle's defense has been a significant area of concern for Eddie Howe. The Magpies will be without key center-backs Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles, both sidelined with cruciate ligament injuries. To make matters worse, Fabian Schar remains suspended following his red card against Southampton. This leaves Howe with limited options in defense, likely forcing him to rely on Dan Burn and Emil Krafth as his central defensive pairing once again. Although the duo performed reasonably well against Bournemouth, they will face a much sterner test against Tottenham's formidable attack.

Newcastle's injury woes extend beyond their defense. Midfielders Joe Willock, Callum Wilson, and young talent Lewis Miley are all expected to miss the match due to injuries, while goalkeeper Martin Dubravka is also a doubt. On the brighter side, Sandro Tonali made his return in the EFL Cup match against Nottingham Forest. The Italian midfielder, who missed much of the previous season due to suspension, could start this weekend, providing a much-needed boost to Newcastle's midfield.

Tottenham's Promising Start Under Postecoglou

Tottenham Hotspur, under new manager Ange Postecoglou, has made a positive start to the season. The North London club has also earned four points from their opening two matches, placing them fifth in the table, just ahead of Newcastle on goal difference. Postecoglou has already begun to implement his attacking philosophy, and the early results have been encouraging.

Tottenham's season opener on August 19 saw them dominate possession and create numerous chances against Leicester City, but they had to settle for a 1-1 draw. Despite 15 shots and 70% possession, Spurs were unable to secure the win, with Pedro Porro's 29th-minute goal ultimately canceled out by a Leicester counterattack, exposing Tottenham's defensive vulnerabilities.

The second match of the season was much more comfortable for Spurs, who cruised to a 4-0 victory over Everton on August 24. Goals from Yves Bissouma, Cristian Romero, and Son Heung-Min ensured a comprehensive win, with Son capitalizing on a rare error from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. The match underscored Tottenham's attacking capabilities, as they have been one of the most dangerous sides in the league so far this season. Postecoglou's team ranks second in the Premier League for shots on goal, chances created, and touches in the opposition box, highlighting their ability to generate and finish opportunities.

However, Tottenham will be without some key players for their trip to St. James' Park. Brazilian forward Richarlison is sidelined for several weeks after picking up an injury in training, and Dominic Solanke remains unavailable. On a more positive note, Rodrigo Bentancur is expected to be fit and could make an appearance off the bench. The Uruguayan midfielder could provide a much-needed spark if Postecoglou opts to start James Maddison, Pape Matar Sarr, and Yves Bissouma in midfield.

A Tactical Showdown: Attack Versus Defense

The match at St. James' Park is set to be an intriguing tactical battle between two teams with contrasting styles. Newcastle's injury-hit defense will face one of the league's most potent attacks, making Eddie Howe's tactical setup crucial to their chances of securing a positive result.

Newcastle's probable starting lineup could feature Nick Pope in goal, with a back four of Tino Livramento, Emil Krafth, Dan Burn, and Lloyd Kelly. In midfield, Sandro Tonali could partner with Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton, while the attacking trio of Jacob Murphy, Alexander Isak, and Anthony Gordon will aim to exploit any weaknesses in Tottenham's defense.

For Tottenham, Postecoglou might stick with a 3-4-3 formation, with Guglielmo Vicario in goal, supported by a back three of Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero, and Micky van de Ven. Destiny Udogie and Porro could serve as wing-backs, while Yves Bissouma and James Maddison control the midfield. In attack, Son Heung-Min is likely to lead the line, with Brennan Johnson and Nathaniel Odobert offering support.

Key Battles to Watch

One of the crucial matchups will be between Newcastle's patched-up central defense and Tottenham's dynamic front three. With Newcastle's regular center-backs sidelined, Dan Burn and Emil Krafth will have a tough task containing the likes of Son and Johnson. Tottenham's fluid, quick-passing attack could expose any weaknesses in Newcastle's backline.

Another key battle will be in midfield, where Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali must assert themselves against Tottenham's energetic trio of Bissouma, Maddison, and Sarr. If Newcastle can dominate the midfield and disrupt Tottenham's rhythm, they might stifle the visitors' attack and create counter-attacking opportunities.

On the wings, the duel between Anthony Gordon and Pedro Porro could be decisive. Gordon's speed and direct approach could trouble Porro, who, while strong in attack, has shown vulnerabilities defensively. If Newcastle can get Gordon into one-on-one situations with Porro, they might be able to create some dangerous chances.

Prediction

Given the attacking style of both teams and Newcastle's defensive issues, a high-scoring game seems likely. Tottenham has struggled defensively at St. James' Park in recent years, but with Newcastle's injury troubles at the back, Spurs might have the upper hand this time. Ange Postecoglou's side has shown they can create and convert chances efficiently, and if they can keep things tight at the back, they could walk away with all three points.

In summary, this match has all the elements of a Premier League classic—two ambitious teams, key absentees, and the potential for plenty of goals. Whether Newcastle can overcome their defensive challenges or Tottenham can end their recent poor run at St. James' Park remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: football fans are in for a captivating encounter this Sunday.

Newcastle vs Tottenham

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