Carabao Cup holders Newcastle United return to St James’ Park under pressure as they host an in-form Fulham side, with a place in the semi-finals on the line. After derby-day disappointment, Eddie Howe’s men must respond, but they face a Fulham team full of belief and momentum.
Match Preview and Current Form
Newcastle are looking to bounce back after a painful 1-0 Wear-Tyne derby defeat to Sunderland, a performance their captain Bruno Guimarães openly labelled “embarrassing.” However, a return to the Carabao Cup could be the perfect remedy. This is the competition that ended their 70-year trophy drought, and the Magpies boast an imposing record of 11 straight Carabao Cup home wins, including a victory over Tottenham in the last round.
Despite recent setbacks, Newcastle remain strong at St James’ Park, where only Arsenal and Barcelona have beaten them since September (W9, D1). That home dominance makes them favourites, but confidence alone may not be enough.
Fulham arrive in the North East in excellent shape. Marco Silva’s side have won five of their last eight matches, including back-to-back away wins, and a thrilling 3-2 victory over Burnley at the weekend lifted them to within two points of Newcastle in the Premier League. Relegation fears are gone, and attention now turns to history, as Fulham chase their first-ever major domestic trophy.
Head-to-Head Insight
Newcastle won the most recent meeting 2-1 in October and have been solid at home against Fulham, winning six of the last 11 H2Hs at St James’ Park. This will be the first Carabao Cup meeting between the sides since the 1981/82 season, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
Key Stats and Trends
- Newcastle have scored exactly two goals in seven of their last eight home matches.
- Howe has more managerial wins against Fulham (9) than almost any other opponent.
- Six of Fulham’s last seven away matches saw both teams score.
- Three of Fulham’s last five Carabao Cup away games went to penalties.
These numbers point towards a tight contest, possibly stretching deep into the game.
Players to Watch
Bruno Guimarães loves this fixture. He scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner in the last H2H and has been involved in five goals against Fulham across previous meetings.
For Fulham, Harry Wilson is the man in form. He has 11 goal contributions in his last eight games for club and country (7 goals, four assists). Notably, most of his goals for Fulham this season have come between the 35th and 65th minute, making him a strong first goalscorer candidate.
Team News
Newcastle’s main concerns are in defence, with Dan Burn ruled out after being hospitalised following the Sunderland match. Fulham are expected to miss Ryan Sessegnon.
Betting Prediction and Tip
Newcastle’s home strength cannot be ignored, but Fulham’s away form and attacking confidence make them dangerous. Goals at both ends look likely.
Best Prediction:
- Both Teams to Score (BTTS)
- Harry Wilson to score anytime or first goalscorer.
A narrow Newcastle win or a draw forcing extra time would not be a surprise.
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Final Verdict: Newcastle’s experience and home advantage give them the edge, but Fulham’s rise means this quarter-final could be far tighter than expected. Expect intensity, goals, and possibly late drama at St James’ Park.
