<p>Newcastle United’s return to the UEFA Champions League arguably couldn’t start any harder for Eddie Howe’s side, as they’ll take on one of Europe’s biggest and best in FC Barcelona on Friday, September 19 at 05:00 AEST.</p> <p>Newcastle finished bottom of their Champions League group in 2023/24. However, they had one magical night at St. James’ Park as they defeated the current defending champions PSG 4-1.</p> <p>Will they be able to produce another night like that? Or, will Hansi Flick’s team of superstars be able to begin their UCL campaign in a way in which they look to set out and return to the top of European soccer once again?</p> <h2>Newcastle vs Barcelona Betting Preview</h2> <p>These two teams have faced each other four times in UEFA Champions League history, with the Spanish side winning three of those. However, the last two meetings were way back in the 2002/03 season (Barca won 3-1 and 2-0, with the latter in England).</p> <p>Newcastle are definitely a different proposition than they were 20-plus years ago, as they have been backed by the PIF, allowing them to bring in quality players like Nick Woltemade. He replaced Alexander Isak and immediately endeared himself to the fans by scoring a goal on his debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers to give them the win.</p> <p>Still, Howe will be without other new signings in Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey, as both are injured. Midfield powerhouse Joelinton could be available, though, which will be a boost.</p> <p>Barcelona, meanwhile, have their own injury concerns, with many top players out. Lamine Yamal, Frenkie de Jong, and Alejandro Balde are all unavailable for Flick, while Gavi’s status remains doubtful ahead of the trip to England.</p> <p>Still, they will have plenty of options to choose from, with Raphinha and Marcus Rashford aware of the hostile nature of St. James’ Park, while veteran striker Robert Lewandowski is in hot form after scoring twice against Valencia in a 6-0 win on Monday, as did Brazilian Raphinha.</p> <h2>Newcastle vs Barcelona Betting Predictions</h2> <p>Our <a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/soccer/uefa-competitions/uefa-champions-league/newcastle-v-barcelona-9576219">Newcastle vs Barcelona betting odds</a> have the Spanish side as the favourites to win this game, with the quality of their squad, form heading into the match, and experience they have of playing in the UEFA Champions League being big reasons.</p> <p>Still, there is value in backing Newcastle to record a potential upset and win. In three of Newcastle United's last four Champions League matches, the underdog has gone on to win, including the 4-1 victory at St. James’ Park against PSG. Newcastle continue to have many of those players available, which may help them create another magical European night for their fans.</p> <p>If you’re looking at the goals market, the 'Over 2.5 Goals' market has hit in each of Barcelona's last eight Champions League League Phase matches, while the 'Both Teams to Score' market has hit in nine of Barcelona's last 10 Champions League away matches, so both could be worth looking at here.</p>