The UEFA Champions League is set to witness an unprecedented clash as Newcastle United and Paris Saint-Germain lock horns in a highly-anticipated Group F encounter. Both teams are eager to secure a victory and consolidate their positions in the group standings. Newcastle, who have remained unbeaten in their last five matches, are determined to give their loyal supporters a taste of European football at St James’ Park after a 20-year absence from the prestigious competition. On the other hand, PSG, despite a disappointing draw against Clermont, will look to replicate their impressive performance from the opening matchday against Dortmund.
Newcastle United, led by manager Eddie Howe, will have to navigate this crucial fixture without the services of Barnes, Botman, Willock, Joelinton, and Wilson. However, they remain confident in their 4-3-3 formation, making minimal changes to their usual starting eleven. Bruno Guimaraes and Longstaff will accompany the potentially doubtful Tonali in midfield, while Lascelles and Schär will form the central defensive partnership in the absence of Botman. Isak, who has been in fine form, will spearhead the Magpies’ attack.
Meanwhile, PSG, under the guidance of Luis Enrique, will have to cope without the likes of Nuno Mendes, Kimpembe, Asensio, and Lee, who is currently participating in the Asian Games. Enrique has made some tactical adjustments, opting for an attacking lineup that features four offensive players. With Mbappé and Dembélé on the wings, and Kolo Muani and Ramos leading the line, PSG will aim to pose a significant threat to Newcastle’s defense. However, Vitinha will have to settle for a place on the bench in this crucial fixture.
As the teams take to the field, the atmosphere at St James’ Park will undoubtedly be electric. Both sets of supporters will be eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter between two footballing giants. Newcastle’s faithful will hope that their team’s recent unbeaten run can serve as a catalyst for success, while PSG’s fans will expect their star-studded lineup to deliver a commanding performance.
The battle on the pitch promises to be intense, with both teams possessing formidable attacking prowess. Newcastle’s Almiron, Isak, and Gordon will look to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities in the PSG backline, while the Parisian outfit will rely on the brilliance of Mbappé and the goal-scoring prowess of Ramos and Kolo Muani to breach Newcastle’s defense.
In the midfield, the battle for control and creativity will be crucial. Tonali’s presence will be vital for Newcastle, as he aims to dictate the tempo of the game and provide the necessary support to the attacking players. PSG’s midfield duo of Zaïre-Emery and Ugarte will be tasked with disrupting Newcastle’s rhythm and supplying the forwards with quality service.
Defensively, both teams will need to be resolute. Newcastle’s defensive quartet of Trippier, Lascelles, Schar, and Burn will have their hands full against PSG’s formidable attacking lineup. The Magpies will need to remain organized and disciplined to nullify the threat posed by Mbappé, Dembélé, Ramos, and Kolo Muani.
Newcastle : Pope – Trippier, Lascelles, Schar, Burn – Bruno, Longstaff, Tonali – Almiron, Isak, Gordon
PSG : Donnarumma – Hakimi, Marquinhos, Skriniar, L.Hernandez – Zaïre-Emery, Ugarte- Dembélé, Kolo Muani, Ramos, Mbappé
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