Mansion Sports – The 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League officially kicks off, and one of the most anticipated fixtures is the meeting between Newcastle United and Barcelona at St James’ Park. The match will take place on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 20:00 local time.

The atmosphere surrounding this clash carries echoes of history, recalling their last encounter in March 2003 when Barcelona claimed a 2-0 victory through goals by Patrick Kluivert and Thiago Motta. 

More than two decades later, the two sides meet again with renewed ambitions and the same intensity that has always defined their rivalry.

Newcastle United: A Return to Europe with Fresh Belief

For Newcastle, the spotlight rests on Nick Woltemade, the towering German striker signed as the high-profile replacement for Alexander Isak. 

His arrival paid immediate dividends when he scored the decisive header in a 1-0 win against Wolverhampton on his Premier League debut. That goal not only secured three points but also ended a troubling three-game winless run.

Manager Eddie Howe insists that his side are back on track, with confidence restored just in time for their Champions League return—only their second in the last three seasons. 

Memories of their painful exit from the 2023/24 “group of death,” which included PSG, Borussia Dortmund, and AC Milan, remain fresh. 

Yet, this year’s group stage is no less formidable, with Barcelona, PSG, Benfica, Marseille, and Bayer Leverkusen standing in their way.

Statistically, Newcastle’s European record remains modest, with only one victory in their last eight continental fixtures. 

Still, St James’ Park has proven a fortress, suffering just three defeats in their last 31 home matches. 

Against Spanish clubs, Newcastle also boast a positive record, with four wins in six encounters.

In terms of squad availability, Newcastle will be without new signings Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey due to injury. 

The good news, however, is that Anthony Gordon will be eligible for Champions League action despite serving a suspension in domestic competition.

In defense, Howe must decide whether to persist with the Fabian Schar–Dan Burn partnership or rotate in Sven Botman or Malick Thiaw.

Barcelona: Champions of Spain Eyeing European Glory

Barcelona arrive with the momentum of being reigning La Liga champions, boosted further by a 6-0 demolition of Valencia in their most recent outing. 

Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Fermin Lopez all scored twice, marking the club’s biggest win in all competitions since 2016. Manager Hansi Flick hailed it as a “perfect performance.”

This season, the Blaugrana’s ambitions are clear: retain their domestic crown and end an 11-year wait for Champions League glory. 

Last term, their journey ended in heartbreak, eliminated in the semifinals with a dramatic 6-7 aggregate loss to Inter Milan.

Barcelona’s consistency in the group and league phase has been strong, suffering only two defeats in their last 17 matches against English clubs. 

Historically, they have also excelled in Champions League openers—out of 29 participations, they have lost just three opening matches. 

Still, their 1-2 defeat to AS Monaco on matchday one last season serves as a timely reminder to remain vigilant ahead of their trip to Tyneside.

Injury concerns, however, loom over Flick’s squad. Lamine Yamal and Frenkie de Jong are doubtful, while Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Gavi, and Alejandro Balde are confirmed absentees.

Encouragingly, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha are expected to return to the starting XI after impressing from the bench last weekend. 

Marcus Rashford is also likely to start, while Pedri and Marc Casado could anchor the midfield if De Jong is not fully fit.

Where to Watch Newcastle United vs Barcelona 2025

Depending on your location, the following official broadcasters and streaming platforms will air the match live:

• beIN Sports
• DAZN
• Paramount+
• Amazon Prime Video
• TNT Sports

These platforms provide official live coverage, allowing fans to follow every moment of the clash whether from home or on mobile devices.

Conclusion

The Newcastle United vs Barcelona showdown at St James’ Park is not merely about three points in the opening phase of the Champions League. 

It represents a story steeped in history, ambition, and pride. Newcastle approach the fixture with renewed confidence and the support of their home crowd, while Barcelona arrive armed with experience, quality, and lofty expectations.

For supporters eager to witness the drama unfold, securing access to the official broadcasters is essential. 

The question remains: will Newcastle’s Magpies seize the spotlight on home soil, or will Barcelona’s Blaugrana showcase their European pedigree?