The UEFA Champions League returns to St. James’ Park as Newcastle United host Benfica in a crucial Round 3 encounter. Both teams aim to strengthen their position in the group stage, with kickoff set for 3:00 PM ET on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
Match Details
- Venue: St. James’ Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, England
- Capacity: 52,758
- Surface: Grass
- Weather Forecast: 52°F, partly cloudy
- Referee: Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
- Competition: UEFA Champions League – Group Stage, Round 3
How to Watch Live:
Catch the action live on Paramount+ (US), CBS Sports Network, ViX Premium Deportes 5, fuboTV, and ViX.
Team Form
Newcastle United Recent Form:
- Brighton 2–1 Newcastle
- Newcastle 2–0 Nottingham Forest
- Union Saint-Gilloise 0–4 Newcastle
- Newcastle 1–2 Arsenal
Eddie Howe’s side has shown flashes of their attacking best, particularly in their dominant European away win against Union SG. However, recent domestic defeats highlight defensive lapses that could be exploited by Benfica’s pace and precision. The Magpies will rely heavily on Bruno Guimarães’ control in midfield and Alexander Isak’s finishing to regain momentum at home.
Benfica Recent Form:
- Vizela 0–2 Benfica
- Porto 0–0 Benfica
- Chelsea 1–0 Benfica
- Benfica 2–1 Famalicão
Benfica have bounced back from a narrow loss at Stamford Bridge with strong performances in the Primeira Liga. Roger Schmidt’s men remain disciplined defensively and dangerous in attack, thanks to Ángel Di María’s creativity and Rafa Silva’s finishing. They enter this match with confidence after securing consecutive wins in all competitions.
Tactical Analysis
Expect a high-intensity matchup between two sides who prefer to press and play vertical football. Newcastle will look to exploit wide areas through Anthony Gordon and Kieran Trippier’s overlaps, while Benfica will aim to hit on the counter through Di María and João Mário.
Key duel: Sandro Tonali vs. João Neves — their midfield battle could determine control and tempo throughout the match.
Prediction
Both sides possess attacking quality but have shown inconsistency at times. Newcastle’s home advantage at a roaring St. James’ Park could make the difference, but Benfica’s European experience gives them an edge in discipline and composure.
Prediction: Newcastle United 1–1 Benfica
Match Essentials
- Kickoff: Tuesday, October 21, 2025 — 3:00 PM ET
- Stadium: St. James’ Park (Newcastle upon Tyne, England)
- Broadcast: Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, ViX Premium Deportes 5, fuboTV
- Weather: 52°F, partly cloudy
- Referee: Szymon Marciniak (Poland)