Newcastle vs Bilbao preview, prediction, team news, and head to head

Newcastle defeated Jose Mourinho's Benfica 3-0 in the last round, and will now be looking to make it three consecutive European wins for the first time since 2007.

Meanwhile, Athletic Bilbao are yet to win away from home since August, and will be desperate to turn things around, especially in such a high-profile clash.

Newcastle responded to their matchday one defeat against Barcelona by recording their largest ever UEFA Champions League win against USG (4-0) and then following that up with an even more impressive 3-0 win over Benfica.

While the Eddie Howe's men suffered a blow, losing 3-1 away to West Ham at the weekend, they will be excited to return to St James' Park, where they have won their last four games on the bounce.

Meanwhile, Since beating Qarabag 3-1 in matchday three, Bilbao have lost their last two games, including Saturday’s 3-2 defeat to Sociedad in the Basque derby.

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Both sides have met just three times in history, one of which was a pre-season friendly, with Newcastle winning twice and Bilbao claiming their solitary win back in 1994.

Kieran Trippier missed Newcastle's defeat at West Ham due to illness, and it remains to be seen if the veteran right-back will be passed fit for the visit of Athletic.Yoane Wissa (knee), Tino Livramento (knee) and Harrison Ashby (thigh) are all out, while Anthony Gordon is also a major doubt for the Magpies.

As for Bilbao, Inaki Williams is not expected to play again until 2026 after suffering an adductor injury, while defender Yeray Alvarez will be out until February due to a doping suspension.

Newcastle United: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Thiaw, Burn; Miley, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Elanga, Woltemade, Barnes

Athletic Bilbao: Simon; Gorosabel, Paredes, Laporte, Berchiche; Rego, Jauregizar; N. Williams, Sancet, Navarro; Guruzeta

Newcastle are formidable at home, and will be eager to bounce back from their disappointing showing at the weekend. Bilbao have struggled on the road, and the lack of consistent goalscoring is a concern for Ernesto Valverde's men. Back Newcastle to steal a narrow win.