Carabao Cup holders Newcastle will start the defence of their crown at home to League One Bradford in the third round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday September 24 at St James’ Park after lifting the trophy back in March when Liverpool were beaten at Wembley.
Newcastle, under the guidance of coach Eddie Howe comes into this match on the back of a hard-fought goaless draw at the Vitality Stadium on Sunday, as Eddie Howe’s winless run against his former club stretched to seven matches.
Softfootball understands that this result has put additional pressure on the Magpies to deliver a strong performance in the League Cup, a tournament they have had recent success in, having defeated Liverpool 2-1 in last year’s competition.
Bradford City, led by Graham Alexander is riding high after a solid run of form, including a 3-1 victory over Cardiff City in their last match. The Bantams are in fine form boasting two consecutive wins in their last five matches across all competitions with a notable goal difference of 5-1 indicating their attacking prowess.
Fresh from their 3-0 victory over Stoke City in the League Cup, Bradford City will be aiming to cause an upset when they face Premier League opposition. The Bantams have made no secret of their excitement, with the club already building anticipation for the clash on their official X account.
Bradford City have seen success in front of goal in the lead-up to this encounter, scoring 15 goals in their previous 6 matches. Having said that, Bradford City have been somewhat leaky at the back, having also been scored against in 5 of those same matches.
Team News
Newcastle will be left without Anthony Gordon on as he completes his suspension for the red card he received against Liverpool, while Jacob Ramsey is also sidelined with an ankle injury.
Record signing Nick Woltemade returns as one of seven changes to the side that lost to Barcelona, with Eddie Howe also reverting to a back three despite Fabian Schar’s absence. Newcastle fans will have to hold on a little longer for Yoane Wissa’s debut as the striker is nursing a knee complaint.
Having made wholesale changes for the EFL Trophy game with Exeter City in midweek, Barry-Murphy will name a team similar to the one that started against Stockport. However, Isaak Davies could get the nod over Cian Ashford on the flank, while Dylan Lawlor is in line to get the nod over Calum Chambers at centre-back.
Omari Kellyman came through 36 minutes earlier this week but is unlikely to be considered for anything more than a place on the substitutes’ bench here. Tommy Leigh is in line to replace Alex Pattison in midfield after his 30th-minute withdrawal against Huddersfield.
Andy Cook will remain on the substitutes’ bench having recently made his comeback from a serious injury, as will Nick Powell who has racked up for substitute outings in recent weeks.
Possible Lineups
Newcastle possible starting lineup: Pope, Thiaw, Botman, Burn , Livramento, Tonali, Miley, Hall, Murphy, Woltemade, Willock
Bradford City possible starting lineup: Walker; Pennington, Baldwin, Touray; Neufville, Pattison, Power, Wright; Sarcevic, Swan, Pointon
SoftFootball’s Prediction
Our prediction for this encounter leans towards a home win for Newcastle United. The Magpies are the favorites, given their superior league status and historical performance against Bradford City, and their overall squad strength. While Bradford City is in good form, the step up in quality and the pressure of the cup tie could hinder their chances.
It looks to us that Newcastle United can and should be able to create a decent number of chances and shots on target. However, Bradford City are also probably going to find it difficult to find the back of the net but, we do see them managing to get on the scoresheet as well here. We’re tipping a decent 3-1 win for the Magpies .
