Monday, April 7, 2025 at 7:00 PM UTC
Match Analysis
Leicester City vs. Newcastle United: Premier League Match Preview & Predictions
Get ready for a crucial Premier League clash as Leicester City host Newcastle United at the King Power Stadium on Monday, April 7th, 2025, at 19:00 GMT. This EPL match preview dives deep into the form, tactics, and key players to provide you with expert Premier League predictions and EPL betting tips. Will Leicester break their home losing streak, or will Newcastle continue their dominance over the Foxes?
Section 1: Match Prediction and Scoreline
Our prediction for this Premier League encounter is:
Leicester 1 – 3 Newcastle
EPL Betting Tips:
- Winner Odds: Newcastle are favored to win.
- Both Teams to Score: Unlikely, given Leicester's scoring woes.
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5 goals is likely, considering Newcastle's attacking prowess.
Probability Breakdown:
- Leicester Win: 15%
- Draw: 20%
- Newcastle Win: 65%
Section 2: Key Factors and Expected Outcome
Several key match factors will influence the expected EPL outcome. Leicester's abysmal home form is a major concern. They've lost their last seven Premier League home games without scoring a single goal. This is a historically bad run, and their morale must be at rock bottom. Ruud van Nistelrooy is under immense pressure, potentially facing a record-equalling eighth consecutive home loss as manager.
Newcastle, on the other hand, are looking to solidify their position in the top half of the Premier League table. Their recent record against newly promoted clubs is excellent, and they've kept clean sheets in their last three matches against Leicester. Eddie Howe's tactical setup and Newcastle's superior firepower give them a significant advantage. The return of Anthony Gordon from suspension will further boost their attacking options.
Section 3: Recent Team Form and Key Players to Watch
Leicester Latest Form:
- Lost 2-0 vs Manchester City (A)
- Lost 0-3 vs Manchester United (H)
- Lost 0-1 vs Chelsea (A)
- Lost 0-4 vs Brentford (H)
- Lost 0-2 vs Arsenal (H)
Leicester are in freefall, with 14 losses in their last 15 Premier League games. Their defense is leaking goals, and they struggle to find the net.
Key Players (Leicester):
- Ricardo Pereira: Returning from injury, but unlikely to start.
- Jamie Vardy: Needs to rediscover his scoring touch to ignite Leicester's attack.
Newcastle Injury Updates:
- Anthony Gordon: Available after suspension and nearing full fitness after a thigh injury.
- Harvey Barnes: In good form, potentially keeping Gordon out of the starting lineup initially.
Newcastle Latest Form:
- Won 2-1 vs Brentford (H)
- Won 1-0 vs West Ham (A)
- Won 4-3 vs Nottingham Forest (H)
- Lost 0-1 vs West Ham (A)
- Lost 0-2 vs Liverpool (A)
Newcastle's form is inconsistent, but they've shown flashes of brilliance. Their attack is potent, but their defense can be vulnerable.
Key Players (Newcastle):
- Alexander Isak: In excellent scoring form, especially against teams in the relegation zone (8 goals in last 6 appearances).
- Harvey Barnes: Impressing recently, creating a strong partnership with Tino Livramento.
- Anthony Gordon: Returns from suspension, adding another dimension to Newcastle's attack (9 goals, 6 assists this season).
Section 4: Tactical Preview
EPL Tactical Analysis:
Leicester are likely to set up in a defensive formation, possibly a 5-3-2, to try and contain Newcastle's attack. They will rely on counter-attacks and set-pieces to create scoring opportunities. However, their lack of confidence and creativity in midfield is a major weakness.
Newcastle will likely adopt a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on high pressing and quick transitions. They will aim to exploit Leicester's defensive vulnerabilities with their pace and movement in the final third. The midfield showdown will be crucial, with Newcastle's midfielders looking to dominate possession and dictate the tempo.
Formation Breakdown:
- Leicester (Likely): 5-3-2
- Newcastle (Likely): 4-3-3
Possession Strategies: Newcastle will aim to control possession, while Leicester will look to play on the counter.
Section 5: Summary and Key Takeaways
In summary, Newcastle are strong favorites to win this match, given Leicester's poor form and their own attacking quality. Leicester's home woes are a significant handicap, and they need a miracle to turn their season around.
Fantasy Football Tips:
- Alexander Isak: A strong pick for your fantasy team, given his recent scoring record.
- Harvey Barnes: Could be a valuable asset if he continues his good form.
Final Prediction:
Expect a comfortable win for Newcastle, with Alexander Isak likely to be among the goals. Leicester may struggle to score, and their defensive frailties will be exposed. The match might see late drama if Leicester manage to find a goal, but Newcastle should ultimately secure all three points.