Newcastle vs Bradford: Prediction, Betting Tips & Odds for the Football match - 24.09.2025
This match is the third round of the EFL Cup, and there are a lot of differences between the two teams, but the visitors still have some real advantages. Newcastle come as the current champions and are also involved in the Premier League and the Champions League. So, Eddie Howe is probably going to do a rotation to protect the energy of his main players and to take care of some injuries. Bradford City are at the top of League One and have already demonstrated their cup pedigree this season by defeating Championship opponents on their way to this draw. The showdown is typical of the cup: a busy top-flight club trying to juggle priorities against a lower-league team full of confidence and momentum - perfect conditions for a competitive and exciting evening at St James’ Park.
Claim Welcome Bonus⚫ Newcastle United Preview
While Newcastle have been strong at the back, they have struggled to score: after a 2–1 home defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League, they went on to draw 0–0 at Bournemouth, so the Magpies have been lacking in goals in their last games. Eddie Howe has announced that there will be a change of line-up for the cup match for the purpose of resting the players who have been involved in three matches last week; Nick Pope, Dan Burn, Tino Livramento and Sandro Tonali are the ones who are most likely to be rested. It is definitely a good thing to know the injury news: the new Yoane Wissa is off the field due to a knee problem that he picked up with the national team, Jacob Ramsey is still out with an ankle issue, and Fabian Schär is being eased after a head injury — these absences determine the Howe’s options and thus the chance of other players being on the starting line. Considering these situations, a combination of youth, reserve players and a few first team regulars is the likely 11 that will be selected - whilst Newcastle will remain the favourites the lineup will be one of rotation.
Newcastle United Lineup
🔁 Predicted Lineup: Aaron Ramsdale; Kieran Trippier (or Emil Krafth); Jamaal Lascelles; Malick Thiaw; Lewis Hall; Joe Willock; Joelinton; Bruno Guimarães; Anthony Gordon; William Osula; Harvey Barnes.
🚑 Injuries/Suspension: Yoane Wissa (knee), Jacob Ramsey (ankle), Fabian Schär (doubt)
👨✈️ Head Coach: Eddie Howe
🔵 Bradford City Preview
Bradford came in a brilliant mood - they are at the top of League One and demonstrated that their condition with the score 3–1 against Cardiff City on 20 September. Graham Alexander’s team has already got a couple of 'victims' of this EFL Cup shoot (wins vs Blackburn and Stoke in the earlier rounds), so they will go up north thinking that they can do a shock.
Bradford rely on tight defending, rapid outlet play and scoring from set-pieces and late runners; Tommy Leigh, Antoni Sarcevic and Will Swan have been dominant, and Andy Cook has returned from a major knee injury and is back in the squad (recent off the bench minutes).
It is most probably that Alexander will keep the formation that has been successful this month - tidy, well-organised and effective on transitions. Preparation for Bradford should be very thorough and they can be a threat on the counterattack and set plays.
Bradford Lineup
🔁 Predicted Lineup: Sam Walker; Matthew Pennington; Aden Baldwin; Ibou Touray; Josh Neufville; Antoni Sarcevic; Max Power; Tyreik Wright; Tommy Leigh; Will Swan; Andy Cook.
🚑 Injuries/Suspension: Lewis Richards (doubt)
👨✈️ Head Coach: Graham Alexander
🤝 Newcastle vs Bradford Head-to-Head Statistics
Competitive fixtures between these two are rare in the modern era. Historically Newcastle have the upper hand in H2H records, but recent meetings are old — so the data set is small and not decisive. Past cup ties and friendlies show both teams have produced open games versus each other.
⚽ Newcastle vs Bradford Betting Tips and Odds
- Over 2.5 goals — Newcastle’s rotation and Bradford’s set-pieces will be a big factor in the match opening up for goals. Both teams have scored in their last matches.
- Both teams to score (BTTS) — Bradford have found the net in most of their recent matches and Newcastle’s rotated XI can be prone to counter attacks.
- Newcastle to win — albeit with a rotated XI, a close victory (1-0 / 2-1) should be more likely) — home advantage combined with squad quality still give the edge to Newcastle.
⚽ Newcastle vs Bradford Match Prediction
Given Newcastle’s rotation and injuries, and Bradford’s current form, the sensible angle is a Newcastle win but with goals and an upset risk.
Top bet recommendations:-
🏅Newcastle Win & Under 4.5 Goals @ 1.63 odds on 1xbet
🏅Both Teams to Score @ 2.27 odds on Betway
🏅Newcastle Win 2-1 Correct Score @ 10 odds on Bet365
⚠️ Disclaimer: Betting odds and lines are subject to change. Please check with your bookmaker for the latest prices before placing any wagers.
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