Premier League Preview: Newcastle vs Aston Villa Prediction, Preview, and Odds (Aug 12)
- Newcastle finished in the top four for the first time in 20 years last season
- Aston Villa looking to build after solid second half to the season under Unai Emery
The most interesting match-up in the Premier League on Saturday comes at St James’ Park, as Newcastle begin their 2023-24 campaign at home against Aston Villa. The visitors are among the dark horses for a European finish this season.
How To Watch
- When: Saturday, August 12, 2023, at 12:30 p.m ET
- Where: St. James’ Park, Newcastle, England
- How To Watch: NBC
Odds
| Match Result | Odds |
|---|---|
| Newcastle | |
| Draw | |
| Aston Villa |
Match Preview
Eddie Howe masterminded Newcastle’s return to the Champions League last season, but the Saudi-backed club will need to show even more progression this coming campaign. The Magpies boast a dominant record in this fixture, as they are unbeaten in their last 14 home matches against Villa since a 3-0 home loss in April 2005.
In fact, Newcastle have recorded more victories against Aston Villa than they have against any other side in Premier League history. The Magpies have a fine record on the opening day of the season, as they have won two of their previous three. That includes a straightforward 2-0 home win over Nottingham Forest at the start of last season.
READ MORE: Canelo Alvarez vs Jermell Charlo Prediction, Preview, and Odds (Sept 30)
Progression will also be expected from Villa this term, as Unai Emery’s side is among the dark horse contenders for a top six finish. The Spaniard has been backed during the transfer market, as the Midlands club have brought in Moussa Diaby and Pau Torres from Bayer Leverkusen and Villarreal, respectively.
Villa landed a 3-0 win in the previous meeting between the sides, but they haven’t won consecutive matches against Newcastle since 2005. In fact, Villa have been poor on the opening day of the season in recent campaigns, as they have lost each of their last two. However, they haven’t lost three consecutive matches on matchday one since 1970.
Newcastle vs Aston Villa Prediction
This should be a thrilling match to close play on the first Saturday of the new season. We fully expect both teams to find the back of the net, and we wouldn’t be surprised to see the sides play out a thrilling 2-2 draw at St. James’ Park.
Free Pick:
