The fact that Newcastle United will host PSV Eindhoven rather than Barcelona does not mean they can expect an easy match. They have already thrashed Liverpool at Anfield (4:1). The key for the hosts is to avoid a repeat of that scenario at St James' Park.
Newcastle United
When Newcastle United hosted Barcelona, they failed to keep track of Marcus Rashford, well known from the Premier League, and lost 1:2. That match marked the start of their campaign in the UEFA Champions League. The Magpies then produced three excellent performances, winning all three with a combined score of 9:0. However, they then dropped points away to Olympique de Marseille and Bayer 04 Leverkusen (both 2:2), which cost them a place in the top eight.
Despite some imperfect results, the team's matches remain entertaining: in five of their six UEFA Champions League games, over 2.5 goals were scored.
PSV Eindhoven
However, this has been the only away victory for PSV Eindhoven. Against the less illustrious Bayer 04 Leverkusen and Olympiacos they managed only draws (both matches finished 1:1). The Dutch side tend to produce heavy wins when an overconfident opponent allow them too much freedom. That was the case when they dismantled Napoli in Eindhoven (6:2). In general, Peter Bosz's side play high-scoring football, and this is not only due to the characteristics of the Eredivisie. In the main stage of the UEFA Champions League, four of their matches ended with over 3.5 goals.
Newcastle United vs PSV Eindhoven Prediction
It is therefore reasonable to back over 2.5 goals. In a combination bet we will also take the Double Chance on Newcastle United, given that before their 0:2 defeat to Manchester City in the EFL Cup they had gone 13 home matches in all competitions without a loss.
