Tottenham vs Newcastle: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

The Premier League action heats up this Saturday as Tottenham Hotspur hosts an in-form Newcastle United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Both teams are heading into this clash with contrasting fortunes. While Newcastle is enjoying a stellar run of form, Spurs are struggling to find consistency amidst a growing injury crisis.

This matchup promises to be an intense battle, with both sides having much at stake. Tottenham needs a win to regain their footing, while Newcastle eyes a top-four spot with their current momentum.

Match Overview

Tottenham’s Struggles

Tottenham has endured a difficult spell, failing to win any of their last three matches. Their most recent outing—a 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers—highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities. Injuries have plagued Ange Postecoglou’s side, particularly at the back, where they’ve been forced to field makeshift lineups. Despite these setbacks, Spurs remain the second-highest scorers in the league, showcasing their attacking prowess.

Currently sitting in the bottom half of the table, Tottenham desperately needs a positive result to lift morale and prevent further slippage.

Newcastle’s Red-Hot Form

In stark contrast, Newcastle United has been flying high, winning their last five matches across all competitions. The Magpies have climbed to fifth in the Premier League standings and are firmly in the hunt for Champions League qualification. Eddie Howe’s side has found a balance between defensive solidity and attacking flair, making them one of the most dangerous teams in the league.

With a strong record against Spurs in recent meetings, Newcastle enters this clash as favorites to secure another crucial victory.

Head-to-Head Record

• Last Five Matches: Newcastle 4 wins, Tottenham 1 win, 0 draws.
• Most Recent Meeting: Newcastle 2-1 Tottenham (September 1, 2024).
• Notable Stats: Newcastle has scored 17 goals in their last five matches against Spurs, including a 6-1 thrashing in April 2023.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs are dealing with a long list of absentees. Defenders Guglielmo Vicario, Ben Davies, Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, and Destiny Udogie are all unavailable, forcing Postecoglou to field a patched-up backline. In midfield, Rodrigo Bentancur is suspended, adding to their woes. On the attacking front, Richarlison, Wilson Odobert, and Mikey Moore remain sidelined.

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Forster; Porro, Dragusin, Gray, Spence; Bissouma, Sarr; Johnson, Kulusevski, Son; Solanke.

Newcastle United

Newcastle also has its share of injuries, particularly in defense. Fabian Schar is suspended, while Jamaal Lascelles, Nick Pope, and Emil Krafth remain unavailable. Sven Botman is nearing a return but is unlikely to feature. Callum Wilson’s absence means Alexander Isak will lead the line, with Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy providing support.

Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
Dubravka; Livramento, Kelly, Burn, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Gordon.

Key Players to Watch

Tottenham Hotspur

• Heung-Min Son: The South Korean forward has been a shining light in an otherwise difficult season for Spurs. His ability to create and finish chances will be crucial.
• Dejan Kulusevski: The Swedish winger’s creativity and dribbling skills can unlock Newcastle’s defense.
• Yves Bissouma: The midfielder’s work rate and ball-winning ability will be key in controlling the tempo.

Newcastle United

• Alexander Isak: With an excellent scoring record against Spurs, Isak is poised to lead Newcastle’s attack and exploit Tottenham’s defensive frailties.
• Anthony Gordon: The winger’s pace and directness make him a constant threat on the counter.
• Bruno Guimaraes: The Brazilian playmaker’s vision and passing ability will be vital in dictating Newcastle’s attacking play.

Tactical Analysis

Tottenham’s Approach

Ange Postecoglou will likely set up his team to dominate possession and play on the front foot. However, their defensive issues mean Spurs must be cautious against Newcastle’s counterattacks. The absence of key players in defense and midfield could force Spurs to adopt a more conservative approach than usual.

Newcastle’s Strategy

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle is expected to play with high intensity, pressing Spurs and exploiting their weakened backline. The Magpies’ front three of Isak, Gordon, and Murphy will look to capitalize on turnovers and stretch Tottenham’s defense with their movement and pace.

Current Form

Tottenham Hotspur (Last Five Matches)

• Tottenham 2-2 Wolves (December 29, 2024)
• Nottingham Forest 1-0 Tottenham (December 26, 2024)
• Tottenham 3-6 Liverpool (December 22, 2024)
• Tottenham 4-3 Manchester United (December 19, 2024)
• Southampton 0-5 Tottenham (December 15, 2024)

Newcastle United (Last Five Matches)

• Manchester United 0-2 Newcastle (December 30, 2024)
• Newcastle 3-0 Aston Villa (December 26, 2024)
• Ipswich 0-4 Newcastle (December 21, 2024)
• Newcastle 3-1 Brentford (December 18, 2024)
• Newcastle 4-0 Leicester (December 14, 2024)

Prediction: Tottenham 1-2 Newcastle

Newcastle’s recent form and Tottenham’s defensive struggles make the Magpies favorites in this clash. While Spurs possess the attacking quality to trouble Newcastle, their inability to keep goals out will likely prove costly. Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon are expected to capitalize on Tottenham’s frailties, securing a narrow 2-1 win for Newcastle.

FAQs

1. What time does Tottenham vs. Newcastle kick off?
   The match kicks off at 12:30 PM GMT / 7:30 AM ET / 4:30 AM PT on Saturday, January 4, 2025.
2. Where is the match being played?
   The game will take place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England.
3. Who are the key players for Tottenham?
   Heung-Min Son, Dejan Kulusevski, and Yves Bissouma are expected to play pivotal roles for Spurs.
4. What is Newcastle’s recent form?
   Newcastle is in excellent form, winning their last five matches across all competitions.
5. What is the predicted score?
   Newcastle 2-1 Tottenham, with the Magpies exploiting Tottenham’s defensive issues.