Newcastle United continue their European campaign this week as they travel to Belgium to face Union Saint-Gilloise in the second match of the UEFA Champions League group stage.
Eddie Howe’s Magpies are still searching for their first points in the competition after a narrow 2-1 defeat to Barcelona in the opening fixture.
They arrive in Brussels looking to bounce back from a bruising late loss to Arsenal in the Premier League at the weekend.
A strong performance is needed from the Magpies, who will come up against a Union SG outfit that is riding a wave of confidence.
The Belgian champions, managed by Sébastien Pocognoli, shocked many by winning 3-1 away against PSV in their first league phase game.
With Union SG unbeaten in their domestic league and playing with high energy, Newcastle will need to be at their best to secure a vital away win.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Either way, it will be a major test for both Newcastle and Union SG in their Champions League action, so here’s a look at everything you need to know ahead of the tie.
Newcastle vs Union SG kick-off time and date
Newcastle's Champions League clash with Union SG is set to take place on Wednesday, October 1st. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:45pm (BST) at Lotto Park in Anderlecht, Brussels.
Newcastle vs Union SG TV channel
The meeting between Newcastle and Union SG will be available to watch in the UK via TNT Sports 2.
A valid TNT Sports subscription is required to view the match in the UK.
Newcastle vs Union SG live stream
A live stream will be available to view the Newcastle vs Union SG match, with discovery+ hosting the match.
This requires a valid login and a TNT Sports subscription to view.
Newcastle injury news and team updates
Newcastle have a few injury concerns heading into their clash with the Belgian side, but they have also been boosted by the return of a key defender.
Full-back Tino Livramento is ruled out after being stretchered off with a knee injury against Arsenal, with Howe awaiting a second specialist opinion.
Jacob and Wissa remain sidelined with ankle and knee injuries, respectively.
On a positive note, defender Fabian Schär has recovered from concussion and returns to the squad, along with Lewis Hall, who was rested at the weekend.
Captain Lascelles is ineligible for the Champions League group stage due to UEFA squad rules.
Predicted Newcastle XI: Ramsdale; Trippier, Schär, Botman, Hall; Guimarães, Miley, Joelinton; Elanga, Osula, Barnes.
Union SG team news and injury updates
Union SG is expected to field a very strong side as they look to build on their stunning win in the first match.
Manager Pocognoli will be confident in his squad, which is built around an effective counter-attacking system.
Attacking midfielder Anouar Ait El Hadj, who scored in the last Champions League match, is expected to return to the starting XI after overcoming a knock.
Predicted Union SG XI: Scherpen; Mac Allister, Burgess, Khalaili, Leysen; Rasmussen, Zorgane, El Hadj; Niang, David, Rodriguez.
Newcastle and Union SG head-to-head record
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Newcastle United and Union Saint-Gilloise.
Newcastle are unbeaten in their last eight encounters against Belgian opposition, while Union SG won their only previous home game against an English side (beating Liverpool 2-1 two seasons ago).
Newcastle vs Union SG prediction
It’s tough to predict exactly how this match will play out, given it’s the first encounter.
Union SG are full of confidence, play with high energy, and have a good record against English opposition at home.
Newcastle, however, have a point to prove and the individual quality to get a result. This is a must-not-lose fixture for Howe’s side.
Prediction: Newcastle 3-1 Union SG.
Newcastle United news and related links
- The real reason Bruno Guimaraes chose number 39 for Newcastle United
- Newcastle United eye a move for Real Madrid star who is open to Premier League switch
- Angel of the North: Gabriel snatches massive win for Arsenal at Newcastle