Against all judgment, Newcastle have hit the ground running in what was initially known as the Champions League ‘Group of Death’. They currently sit top of the group ahead of Wednesday night’s match with Dortmund after putting on a stunning display in front of their home crowd last time out against PSG, winning 4-1.
Dortmund cannot relate to this sort of European success so far this season with their only point coming from a 0-0 stalemate against AC Milan in the second round of the group.
With both of these sides demonstrating similar league form as of late, it will be interesting to see how the Magpies can handle the visitors who will be eager to revive their European form.
Newcastle vs Dortmund Prediction
St. James’ Park has been somewhat of a fortress for Newcastle as of late, only conceding one goal here in their last five home games in all competitions. It is worth noting, however, that this goal came in their last Champions League fixture against PSG.
The visitors appear to travel well when analysing league form but were unable to replicate this sort of record when suffering their first loss away from home in five months when losing to PSG in their first Group Stage game.
It would be unfair to say that Dortmund have been incapable in front of goal so far this season, but when you combine the impact St. James’ Park appears to have on Newcastle’s defence, with the fact that the only games that Dortmund have failed to score at least one goal in were both of their Champions League fixtures, a case can be made for the visitors struggling here.
Both sides have popular candidates for a booking, but an individual of interest is that of Nico Schlotterbeck. Schlotterbeck has managed to pick up a card in both previous Champions League games this season. Against a nippy Newcastle side, the referee will be sure to keep a close eye on the German as he appears vulnerable to a booking.
Newcastle vs Dortmund Lineups Today
How are both teams expected to line up on Wednesday night? Here are the predicted lineups from WhoScored.com with all the relevant team news.
Newcastle Predicted Lineup
Pope; Trippier, Lascelles, Schar, Burn; Joelinton, Guimaraes, Longstaff; Almiron, Wilson, Gordon
Dortmund Predicted Lineup
Kobel; Wolf, Hummels, Schlotterbeck, Ryerson; Can, Nmecha; Malen, Reus, Brandt; Fullkrug
Newcastle vs Dortmund Team News
Newcastle vs Dortmund Odds
The home advantage appears to have influenced the bookmakers here, showing favouritism to the Magpies who are currently 8/13 on Betfred. The visiting Dortmund side are best priced at 23/5 on BetUK to pick up three points, while a draw pays 3/1 on William Hill.
Newcastle vs Dortmund Bet Builder Tips
Newcastle’s last European performance has shown that they have what it takes to win on the biggest stage, and should be able to carry this form on against a shaky Dortmund side who have struggled so far in this tournament.
The Magpies’ recent home form will prove beneficial as they aim to tame Dortmund here, and with Dortmund struggling on the European stage, I can see Newcastle keeping them at bay.
Nico Schlotterbeck will most likely start the game, playing all 90 minutes. Within this time I see him struggling with the attacking options of the Magpies and picking up a booking.
You can back this Bet Builder at 13/2 on bet365.
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