Tottenham vs Newcastle

Click on any stream link below to watch the game.

 Click on any link in the table above to watch the game.

Just three days after wrapping up their 2023-24 Premier League campaigns, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are set to face off in an unexpected post-season friendly. This match, held at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Australia, promises to be an intriguing encounter between two sides that finished close in the league standings. Spurs ended the season in fifth place, while the Magpies secured a seventh-place finish, just six points behind.

Match Preview

As players from other top European clubs enjoy a much-needed break, Newcastle and Tottenham have embarked on a controversial trip to Australia. This decision has been met with criticism from players, supporters, and even national team managers. Kieran Trippier, Newcastle’s seasoned right-back, and Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou have both publicly acknowledged the less-than-ideal timing of this fixture after a grueling season. Additionally, England manager Gareth Southgate has expressed concerns, noting the potential impact on his preparations for Euro 2024.

Despite the backlash, the financial incentives and the chance to expand their fanbases in Oceania appear to have motivated both clubs to undertake this journey. Spurs will make a quick return to the UK post-match, while Newcastle will stay on to face the Australian A-League All Stars at Marvel Stadium later in the week.

Newcastle United’s Form and Prospects

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side ended their Premier League campaign on a high, securing a 4-2 victory against Brentford. This win has kept their hopes alive for European football next season. They are on the brink of qualifying for the 2024-25 Europa Conference League, contingent on the outcome of the FA Cup final between Manchester City and Manchester United.

The Magpies’ trip to Australia marks their first visit to Oceania since their successful tour in New Zealand in 2014, where they clinched the Football United Tour with victories over Sydney FC and Wellington Phoenix. Newcastle fans will be hopeful that their team can replicate similar success Down Under.

Recent history between Newcastle and Spurs has been favorable for the Magpies, having won three of their last four encounters. This includes a commanding 4-0 victory at St James' Park in April. However, Spurs did manage a 4-1 win in the reverse fixture earlier in the season, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of this matchup.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Form and Prospects

Tottenham, under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou, concluded their Premier League season with a convincing 3-0 win against Sheffield United, securing a spot in the Europa League for next season. Postecoglou, who has deep ties to Melbourne, will be leading his team in familiar territory. The Australian native played for South Melbourne in his youth and began his coaching career there before moving on to manage Melbourne Victory and the Australian national team.

Spurs’ previous visit to the MCG in 2016 was less than successful, suffering friendly defeats to Juventus and Atletico Madrid under then-manager Mauricio Pochettino. This time, they will aim to put on a better show for their Australian supporters and build momentum heading into the next season.

Key Players to Watch

Newcastle United

• Kieran Trippier: The experienced right-back has been a stalwart for Newcastle this season. His defensive solidity and ability to contribute to the attack make him a key player to watch.
• Bruno Guimarães: The Brazilian midfielder has been pivotal in controlling the midfield and providing creativity for Newcastle. His performance could be crucial in this friendly.
• Alexander Isak: The Swedish forward has been in fine form, and fans will be eager to see if he can continue his scoring streak.

Tottenham Hotspur

• Harry Kane: The England captain had another prolific season and will look to add to his tally in this friendly.
• Heung-Min Son: The South Korean star’s pace and finishing ability make him a constant threat to any defense.
• Cristian Romero: The Argentine defender will be key in organizing Spurs’ backline and thwarting Newcastle’s attacks.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground Experience

The MCG, with its 100,000 capacity, offers a unique and grand setting for this post-season friendly. Known primarily as a cricket venue, it has a rich history of hosting major sporting events and will provide a vibrant atmosphere for this encounter. The match not only gives local fans a rare opportunity to see top Premier League teams in action but also helps in promoting the sport in a region where football is growing in popularity.

Conclusion

While the decision to play a friendly in Australia right after the Premier League season has sparked controversy, it undeniably brings excitement and a unique spectacle to the fans in Oceania. Both Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur will be looking to give their supporters something to cheer about and finish their respective seasons on a high note.

With key players from both sides set to feature, this friendly promises to be an entertaining affair. Whether you're a dedicated fan or a casual observer, this match at the MCG is one to watch. As the teams prepare to lock horns once more, the football world will be keenly observing how they fare on the other side of the globe.