Leicester vs. Newcastle: Premier League Match Preview & Predictions

Leicester City vs. Newcastle United: Premier League Match Preview

Get ready for a thrilling English Premier League (EPL) encounter as Leicester City hosts Newcastle United at the King Power Stadium on Monday, April 7th, 2025, at 19:00 GMT. This Premier League match preview dives deep into the form, tactics, and key players to watch, offering EPL predictions and betting tips for this crucial fixture. Will Newcastle continue their push for Champions League football, or can Leicester defy the odds and ignite a late survival bid?

Section 1: Match Prediction and Scoreline

Our Premier League predictions lean towards a narrow victory for the away side, given Leicester's struggles and Newcastle's Champions League ambitions.

Predicted Scoreline: Leicester 1 - 2 Newcastle

EPL Betting Tips:

• Winner Odds: Newcastle are favored to win.
• Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes. Leicester, despite their struggles, are likely to find the net at home.
• Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over. Expect an open game with attacking intent from both sides.

Probability Breakdown:

• Leicester Win: 25%
• Draw: 30%
• Newcastle Win: 45%

Section 2: Key Factors and Expected Outcome

Several key match factors will influence the expected EPL outcome. Leicester's recent form is abysmal, with a seven-match losing streak at home where they haven't scored a single goal. This is a massive psychological blow. Ruud van Nistelrooy's managerial strategies are under intense scrutiny.

Newcastle, on the other hand, are pushing for a top-five finish and Champions League qualification. However, they have injury concerns surrounding key players like Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon. Eddie Howe's managerial experience will be crucial in navigating these challenges. The home advantage for Leicester is negated by their poor home form.

Section 3: Recent Team Form and Key Players to Watch

Leicester Latest Form:

• Lost 0-2 vs Manchester City (A)
• Lost 0-3 vs Manchester United (H)
• Lost 0-1 vs Chelsea (A)
• Lost 0-3 vs Manchester United (H)
• Lost 0-4 vs Brentford (H)
• Lost 0-2 vs West Ham (A)

Key Leicester Players:

• Jamie Vardy: Still a threat, needs to rediscover his scoring touch.
• Harry Winks: Dropped from the squad due to a reported disagreement with the manager. His absence is a blow to their midfield.
• Ricardo Pereira: Returning from injury, but not fit to start.

Newcastle Injury Updates:

• Alexander Isak: Groin injury, doubtful. 20 Premier League goals this season.
• Anthony Gordon: Recovering from a thigh injury, not "100%" fit. 9 goals and 6 assists in all competitions.
• Kieran Trippier: Recovering from cramp, late fitness test required.
• Joelinton: Carrying a niggle, expected to play.

Key Newcastle Players:

• Alexander Isak: If fit, a major goal threat. Has scored 8 goals in his last 6 Premier League appearances against sides starting the day in the relegation zone.
• Harvey Barnes: In good form, potentially keeping Gordon out of the starting XI. 5 goals this season.
• Tino Livramento: Has formed a good partnership with Barnes on the left flank.

Section 4: Tactical Preview

This EPL tactical analysis anticipates Newcastle to adopt a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on quick transitions and exploiting Leicester's defensive vulnerabilities. Leicester are likely to play a more cautious 4-5-1, aiming to frustrate Newcastle and hit them on the counter.

Key Tactical Battles:

• Midfield Control: The battle for midfield dominance will be crucial. Newcastle's midfield trio (if Joelinton is fit) needs to outwork and outmaneuver Leicester's midfield.
• Livramento vs. Leicester's Right Winger: Livramento's defensive capabilities will be tested against Leicester's attacking threat from the right.
• Isak (if fit) vs. Leicester's Defence: Isak's movement and finishing will be key to unlocking Leicester's defense.

Possession Strategies: Newcastle will likely dominate possession, while Leicester will look to play on the counter-attack.

Section 5: Summary and Key Takeaways

In summary, this Premier League match preview suggests a Newcastle victory, but Leicester's desperation could make it a tighter contest than expected. Newcastle's injury concerns are a factor, but their superior quality should see them through.

Fantasy Football Tips:

• Harvey Barnes (Newcastle): A good pick if Gordon is not fully fit.
• Alexander Isak (Newcastle): If confirmed fit, a must-have.

Final Prediction: Expect a close contest with Newcastle ultimately securing a 2-1 victory, driven by their need for Champions League qualification and Leicester's continued struggles in front of goal. The game could feature late drama as Leicester fight for survival.