Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
The opening round of the new Premier League season sees two European hopefuls meet at Villa Park — Aston Villa and Newcastle United. Both sides finished last term level on points, but Newcastle clinched a Champions League spot thanks to a superior goal difference. Aston Villa head into the campaign in prime condition and boasting formidable home form.
Aston Villa
Last season, Aston Villa lost just once at home, putting together a run of eight straight wins on their own turf. In 19 matches at Villa Park, they collected 40 points with a goal difference of 34:20 — a record on par with the league’s elite. Over the summer, the team played eight friendlies (three wins, three defeats, two draws), with both losses coming when fielding rotated line-ups. The squad has remained largely intact, with Ligue 1 forward Evann Guessand — who produced 12 goals and eight assists last season — the standout arrival.
Newcastle United
Newcastle, by contrast, approach the season with concerns. The team failed to win a single pre-season match, and injuries are an issue: Joe Willock is sidelined, Anthony Gordon is doubtful, and Alexander Isak has openly expressed a desire to leave. Away from home last term, Newcastle ranked only 10th in the league (8-4-7, goal difference 28:27), a finish below their top-five ambitions. They have added Aaron Ramsdale, Malick Thiaw and Anthony Elanga, while Callum Wilson, Martin Dúbravka and Sean Longstaff have departed.
Aston Villa vs Newcastle United Prediction
At present, Aston Villa look the more settled and motivated side. The home advantage, a solid squad and strong form should be decisive. Newcastle’s turbulence and lack of cohesion in their starting line-up could prove costly. The safer play is a double chance on Villa combined with over 1.5 total goals.
