Match Preview
As Newcastle United prepares to host Manchester City at St James’ Park on March 7, 2026, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting FA Cup clash. This encounter marks the fifth meeting between the two teams this season, with Newcastle having won the first fixture back in November but subsequently losing the last three matches against City.
The match is set to kick off at 8 PM UK time, with both teams facing the challenge of managing a busy schedule that includes Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup fixtures. Newcastle’s manager, Eddie Howe, emphasized the competitiveness of previous encounters, stating, “The games against Manchester City have all been close. We’ve had chances against them. I don’t think we’ve been as clinical as we need to be to win those games and, of course defensively, we need to be watertight.”
Newcastle United comes into this match with a recent victory over Manchester United, despite being reduced to ten men. However, they will be without key player Jacob Ramsey, who is suspended due to two yellow cards. Additionally, injuries have sidelined Bruno Guimaraes, Tino Livramento, Lewis Miley, Fabian Schar, and Emil Krafth, which could impact their performance against a formidable Manchester City side.
Manchester City, on the other hand, is currently seven points behind Arsenal in the Premier League title race. Manager Pep Guardiola noted the importance of resilience in his team’s performance, saying, “Many times, in the two seasons and last season especially, and this season as well normally we react well [to setbacks].” Despite their strong form, City will be missing Josko Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic, and Max Alleyne due to injuries, while Nico O’Reilly is a doubt with an ankle issue.
Both teams have shown impressive records in the FA Cup, with Newcastle having progressed from nine of their last ten fifth-round ties. Meanwhile, Manchester City boasts an impressive track record, winning 18 of their last 20 matches in the FA Cup over the past four seasons. This match could be pivotal for both teams as they aim to secure a place in the next round of the tournament.
Newcastle’s predicted line-up features a 4-3-3 formation with Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Burn; Willock, Tonali, Joelinton; Elanga, Gordon, and Barnes. In contrast, Manchester City is expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Trafford; Nunes, Khusanov, Guehi, Ait-Nouri; Rodri, Gonzalez; Bernardo, Cherki; Semenyo, and Marmoush.
As the match approaches, the stakes are high for both teams. Newcastle will be looking to leverage their home advantage and break their losing streak against City, while Manchester City aims to maintain their dominance in the FA Cup. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both clubs as they navigate their respective campaigns.
With both teams eager to advance in the FA Cup, fans can expect an entertaining clash. Betting markets suggest a high-scoring game, with over 2.5 goals available at 8/11. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final line-ups and any last-minute changes, but the excitement surrounding this fixture continues to build.
