The FA Cup fifth-round clash between Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United brings together two teams from contrasting leagues and situations. Set for Tuesday, February 27, at Ewood Park, this encounter will see Blackburn aiming to leverage their home advantage against Premier League side Newcastle, who have had mixed results in recent outings.
Key Match Details
Date and Time: Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at 19:45 GMT
Venue: Ewood Park, Blackburn, England
Broadcast: BBC Sport Web, BBC iPlayer (UK), ESPN+ (US), and Sportsnet (Canada)
Team Form and Recent Performances
Blackburn Rovers
Currently in the Championship, Blackburn has had a challenging season, particularly after the managerial change that saw Jon Dahl Tomasson replaced by John Eustace in early February. Since then, Blackburn has struggled to find consistent form, managing a few draws and a win against Stoke City but generally finding it difficult to secure victories.
In recent matches, Blackburn has faced mixed fortunes with players like Ryan Hedges and Joe Rankin-Costello sidelined by injuries. Despite these challenges, they’ve shown resilience and will hope their defensive structure, usually a 3-4-2-1 formation, will be robust enough to counter Newcastle’s offensive threats.
Newcastle United
Newcastle United comes into this match with its own share of challenges. The Magpies have recently faced high-scoring games, including a heavy defeat against Arsenal. Injuries have affected their squad depth, with key players such as Nick Pope (shoulder dislocation), Callum Wilson (chest injury), and Joelinton (thigh injury) either out or doubtful for the upcoming fixture.
Eddie Howe has had to rely on alternate options in goal, with Martin Dubravka recovering from an illness and Nick Pope out long-term. This has led to the inclusion of Loris Karius, who recently made his first Premier League start in almost six years. Newcastle will likely adopt their typical 4-3-3 formation, with players like Bruno Guimarães and Alexander Isak spearheading the attack.
Projected Lineups
Blackburn Rovers (3-4-2-1)
Goalkeeper: Pears
Defenders: Hyam, Wharton, McFadzean
Midfielders: Brittain, Tronstad, Buckley, Pickering
Forwards: Dolan, Gallagher, Szmodics
Blackburn’s setup focuses on a three-man defense supported by wing-backs and a midfield designed to provide defensive solidity while capitalizing on counterattacks. Gallagher and Szmodics are expected to play key roles in Blackburn’s offensive movements, with Dolan offering support from the flanks.
Newcastle United (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Karius
Defenders: Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn
Midfielders: Bruno Guimarães, Longstaff, Anderson
Forwards: Almirón, Isak, Gordon
Newcastle’s lineup reflects their offensive approach with a focus on wide play and overlapping full-backs. Trippier and Burn will play pivotal roles, balancing defense with the ability to deliver crosses. Bruno Guimarães is likely to lead in central midfield, distributing balls forward to Alexander Isak, Almirón, and Anthony Gordon, who are expected to challenge Blackburn’s defense.
Key Players to Watch
Ryan Hedges (Blackburn Rovers): Hedges has faced an injury-laden season but remains a critical component of Blackburn’s attack when fit. His availability could add much-needed creativity to their frontline.
Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United): Known for his playmaking ability, Bruno will be central to Newcastle’s midfield operations, linking defense with attack and providing precision passes to the forward line.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle United): Isak has shown his prowess in the final third, and his ability to find space and score goals will be crucial for Newcastle to overcome Blackburn’s defense.
Head-to-Head and Recent Encounters
Historically, the encounters between Blackburn and Newcastle have been competitive, with each team claiming victories in the last five meetings. Their most recent clash in the 2020 EFL Cup saw Newcastle emerge victorious with a narrow 1-0 win, reflecting the close nature of their matchups.
Newcastle United Predicted Lineup and Key Players
For Newcastle United, manager Eddie Howe may choose a robust squad, possibly bringing in some first-team regulars to secure advancement in the competition. Key players expected to feature include:
Goalkeeper: Loris Karius is likely to start, offering experience in goal, particularly with Nick Pope’s availability being uncertain.
Defense: Howe may rely on Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Sven Botman, and Dan Burn to form a solid defensive backline. Trippier’s experience and leadership will be critical in handling Blackburn’s attack.
Midfield: Joe Willock, Bruno Guimarães, and Sean Longstaff are expected to control the midfield, combining technical skill with physicality to manage Blackburn’s counter-attacks.
Attack: Harvey Barnes, Alexander Isak, and Jacob Murphy are predicted to lead the front line, providing pace and finishing prowess to penetrate Blackburn’s defense.
Players like Sandro Tonali, Matt Targett, and Callum Wilson are also potential substitutions or rotational players for the game, depending on fitness and tactical considerations
FAQs
What is the historical record between Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United?
In their last five games, both teams have managed two wins each, with one draw, highlighting a balanced rivalry.
Who are the injured players for Blackburn and Newcastle?
Blackburn is missing Ryan Hedges, John Fleck, and Joe Rankin-Costello due to injuries. For Newcastle, key players like Nick Pope, Callum Wilson, and Joelinton are sidelined.
How can fans watch the Newcastle United game?
UK viewers can watch the game on BBC Sport and BBC iPlayer. In the US, ESPN+ will stream the match, while Sportsnet will broadcast it in Canada.
Prediction and Expectations
Given both teams’ recent form, Newcastle is likely to be the favourite despite their injury concerns. Their attacking options and depth give them an edge, but Blackburn’s home advantage and resilience could make this a closely contested game. Expect Blackburn to focus on a counterattacking strategy, while Newcastle will aim for early control of possession and pressure through their forward line.
In Summary
The Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United match is set to be a thrilling FA Cup encounter, with both teams eager to advance. While Newcastle appears stronger on paper, Blackburn’s defensive structure and home crowd support might level the playing field, potentially leading to a competitive and exciting fixture.
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