Newcastle vs Aston Villa: Boxing Day Showdown
The Premier League returns with a thrilling Boxing Day clash as Newcastle vs Aston Villa takes center stage at St James’ Park. Both teams are in fine form and are vying for European qualification, making this encounter a must-watch for football fans.
Boxing Day visit of Aston Villa. 🥊
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 24, 2024
🔜 #NEWAVL pic.twitter.com/0f6shIv8KB
Newcastle Preview: Magpies Finding Their Rhythm
Newcastle United, under Eddie Howe, have rediscovered their scoring touch after a challenging start to the season. The Magpies have been in scintillating form recently, highlighted by a dominant 4-0 victory over Ipswich Town, where Alexander Isak netted a hat-trick.
Their recent performances, including a 3-1 win over Brentford in the EFL Cup, have boosted their confidence as they aim for a top-seven finish. However, injuries remain a concern, with key players like Nick Pope and Callum Wilson sidelined. Joelinton’s availability will also be a late decision as he recovers from facial injuries.
Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper (GK):
- Dubravka
Defenders (DF):
- Right-back: Livramento
- Center-backs: Schar, Burn
- Left-back: Hall
Midfielders (MF):
- Longstaff, Guimaraes, Willock
Forwards (FW):
Left-wing: Gordon
Right-wing: Murphy
Striker: Isak
Unavailable: Pope, Lascelles, Krafth, Wilson
Questionable: Botman, Joelinton
Aston Villa Preview: Emery’s Resilient Villains
Unai Emery’s Aston Villa have bounced back from a tough autumn and are now pushing for a top-four finish. The Villains have won four of their last five matches across all competitions, including an impressive 2-1 victory over defending champions Manchester City.
Jhon Duran and Morgan Rogers were the stars in that game, showcasing Villa’s attacking prowess. While Jacob Ramsey remains out with a hamstring injury, Diego Carlos could return to bolster the defense. Villa’s recent form makes them a formidable opponent for Newcastle.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper (GK):
- Martinez
Defenders (DF):
- Right-back: Cash
- Center-backs: Konsa, Torres
- Left-back: Digne
Midfielders (MF):
- Defensive/central midfielders: Kamara, Onana
- Attacking midfielders: McGinn, Tielemans, Rogers
Forward (FW):
Striker: Duran
Unavailable: Ramsey
Questionable: Carlos
Key Matchup: Newcastle vs Aston Villa
This Boxing Day clash promises to be an exciting contest between two teams in great form. Newcastle’s newfound scoring ability, led by Alexander Isak, will be tested against Villa’s solid defense and counter-attacking threat.
Both teams have shown they can score goals, and with their attacking styles, this game could be an open and entertaining affair.
Prediction: Goals Galore at St James’ Park
Newcastle’s recent resurgence in front of goal and Villa’s confidence after beating Manchester City suggest this will be a high-scoring encounter. Expect an entertaining game with plenty of chances for both sides.
Tip: Over 2.5 goals
