Newcastle vs Southampton prediction 17.08.2024 | EPL

• Competition: Premier League
• Date: Saturday, 17th August 2024
• Kickoff: 15:00 UK / 16:00 CEST
• Venue: St. James' Park (Newcastle)

After the 2022/23 season and the top-four position in the strongest English division, Newcastle were flying high. However, last year, they came back to Earth with only seventh place on the table. For the 2024/25 season, Newcastle's goal is clear - to return to the best four Premier League teams. 

Newcastle was impressive in the preseason, winning four out of five matches. Although they didn't have too many friendlies against top teams, the outstanding preseason should give Eddie Howe's team a lot of confidence before the season starts. In the previous match, Newcastle won 1-0 against Brest. 

After only one season in the Championship, Southampton returns to the Premier League. The road to the best English competition wasn't easy, but the Saints found the way through the playoff to come back. They are surely one of the worst Premier League teams at the moment, and their only goal at the moment is to stay away from the relegation zone. 

Southampton had an impressive preseason with four wins, two draws, and only one defeat. In the previous match, Russell Martin's team played 0-0 against Getafe. That was another solid game for Southampton, so they will head to the Premier League opening round with a lot of confidence. 

Newcastle vs Southampton pick: Under 3.5 goals

Newcastle allowed only three goals in five preseason matches. On the other hand, Southampton allowed only three goals in the previous four friendly games. Both teams have solid defense, so under 3.5 goals should be the best bet for this tie. 

It is the start of the season, but Newcastle already have problems with missing players. They will be without Callum Wilson, Matt Targett, Lewis Miley, Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman, and Sandro Tonali. Also, Fabian Schar is questionable for the opening round.