Champions League Showdown: Newcastle Hosts Barcelona in Marquee Opener
Barcelona faces a formidable challenge on the road as they kick off their UEFA Champions League campaign against a resurgent Newcastle United side. This highly anticipated clash promises fireworks as both teams look to make a strong statement in Europe’s elite competition.
Fresh off a dominant performance in La Liga over the weekend, Barcelona enters this fixture with high aspirations. After coming agonizingly close to reaching the Champions League final in the 2024-25 season, succumbing to a dramatic extra-time defeat against Inter Milan in the semifinals, Hansi Flick’s side is determined to go all the way this year. The German manager, who secured a domestic treble in his inaugural season, led Barcelona to an impressive showing in the first-ever league phase. However, their European journey begins with a stern test against an Eddie Howe-led Newcastle, known for creating a daunting atmosphere at St. James’ Park. The Magpies will be eager to replicate the heroics of their memorable 1997 victory over Barcelona, inspired by the legendary Faustino Asprilla.
Match Details: Kick-Off Time and Venue
- Location: Newcastle, England
- Stadium: St. James’ Park
- Date: Thursday, September 18
- Kick-Off Time: 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. BST
- Referee: Glenn Nyberg (SWE)
- VAR: Jérôme Brisard (FRA)
How to Watch Newcastle vs. Barcelona: TV and Live Stream Information
Fans across the globe can catch all the action from St. James’ Park through various broadcast and streaming platforms:
United Kingdom
TNT Sports holds the exclusive rights to the majority of Champions League fixtures in the UK. Thursday’s match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Alternatively, viewers can stream the game via Discovery+ and the discovery+ app. Amazon Prime Video also offers access to Champions League fixtures, including Newcastle vs. Barcelona, with a Discovery+ subscription, priced at £30.99 a month.
United States
In the US, Paramount+ is the primary rights holder. Spanish-speaking audiences can also tune in via TUDN, Univision, UniMás, and ViX. Amazon Prime Video is also an option for US viewers.
Canada
Canadian fans have several options, including three packages available with DAZN Canada, which grant access to Thursday’s game. Amazon Prime Video is also available in Canada.
Mexico
For viewers in Mexico, Max Mexico, TNT Go, Amazon Prime Video, and TNT Sports are the leading platforms to watch the clash.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Barcelona’s Upcoming Fixtures
Following this crucial Champions League opener, Barcelona faces a packed schedule with three La Liga games before their blockbuster league phase clash against Paris Saint-Germain on October 1. These domestic encounters include a Sunday duel with Getafe at the Estadio Johan Cruyff, followed by matches against Real Oviedo and Real Sociedad in September.
Newcastle’s Road Ahead
Newcastle also has a challenging run of fixtures. In Gameweek 2 of the Champions League, they travel to Union Saint-Gilloise, who recently secured an impressive victory over PSV Eindhoven. Domestically, the Magpies face an in-form Bournemouth in the Premier League this weekend and will soon welcome Arsenal to St. James’ Park, promising another thrilling encounter.
This UEFA Champions League fixture is more than just a season opener; it’s a test of ambition and a statement of intent for both clubs. With Barcelona aiming for European glory and Newcastle seeking to establish themselves among the continent’s elite, St. James’ Park is set to witness a captivating encounter.
