For their first match of 2025, high-flying Newcastle United will visit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in a lunchtime kickoff in the Premier League on Saturday, January 4. Africa Football’s editor Allan Damba looks into the upcoming clash.
Newcastle enters this clash on the back of a comfortable and dominant 2-0 victory over a struggling Manchester United at Old Trafford on Monday, their final fixture of 2024. Goals from the in-form Alexander Isak and Brazilian Joelinton sealed the win.
At the halfway point of the season, Eddie Howe’s team remains firmly in the hunt for a Champions League spot. They currently sit fifth in the table with 32 points from 19 matches.
In contrast, Tottenham have struggled for form, failing to win any of their last three games. They have suffered two losses and secured just one draw, with their most recent match ending in a 2-2 stalemate against Wolverhampton on Sunday.
Ange Postecoglou’s side sits 11th in the table with only 24 points from 19 matches played so far. Another draw or defeat would further dent their hopes of securing European football next season.
Injuries have played a major role in Tottenham’s struggles this season. Key players, including Guglielmo Vicario, Mickey van de Ven, Cristian Romero, Ben Davies, Richarlison, and others, remain sidelined and will miss this crucial clash against Newcastle.
Our Prediction for Tottenham v Newcastle
This game presents two teams on contrasting runs: Newcastle are riding a winning streak, while Tottenham are struggling for results. Both teams have been prolific in attack recently, combining for 15 goals in their last three games. Punters can consider betting on Over 2.5 goals with odds of 1.34 on 1xBet. For bigger returns, an Away (Newcastle) win is available at an attractive 2.25 on 1xBet.
Tottenham Recent Form Analysis
Tottenham have managed only two wins in their last five matches across all competitions. Their most recent victory came 12 days ago against Manchester United in the English Football League Cup (4-3). However, they haven’t won a Premier League game since their emphatic 5-0 victory over Southampton on December 14.
- Last Five Games: 2 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw
- Latest Result: Wolverhampton 2-2 Tottenham Hotspur
Newcastle Recent Form Analysis
Newcastle have been in exceptional form, winning each of their last five matches across all competitions. During this period, they have scored 16 goals and conceded just one. Their last defeat came on December 7, when they lost 4-2 to Brentford in the Premier League.
- Last Five Games: 5 wins, 0 draws, 0 losses
- Latest Result: Manchester United 0-2 Newcastle
Player to Watch
Yves Bissouma: With 22 appearances this season, Bissouma has established himself as one of Tottenham’s key players. The Malian provides defensive solidity while initiating attacks for Postecoglou’s team. Tottenham will need him at his best to secure a positive result on Saturday.
Best Odds and Betting Tips
Here are the top betting tips for this match:
- Over 2.5 goals at odds of 1.34 on 1xBet
- Away (Newcastle) win at odds of 2.25 on 1xBet
- Both Teams to Score (Yes) at odds of 1.32 on 1xBet
