Newcastle United FC vs Everton FC

Premier League
February 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM
TBD

Premier League Showdown: Newcastle United Host Everton in a Battle for Crucial Points

Date: 2026-02-28
Kick-off: 15:00:00
Competition: Premier League
Venue: Unknown Venue

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1. INTRODUCTION

As the Premier League campaign hurtles towards its crucial final third, Saturday, February 28th, 2026, presents a fixture brimming with intrigue and significant implications as Newcastle United prepare to host Everton. While the specific venue remains undisclosed, the stakes are crystal clear for both sides. Newcastle, under the astute guidance of their management, have solidified their position as genuine contenders for European football, and every point from here on out is vital in their quest for Champions League or Europa League qualification. Their consistent upward trajectory since the mid-2020s has transformed them into a formidable force, and maintaining that momentum against a resolute opponent is paramount.

For Everton, the narrative is equally compelling. Having navigated a period of rebuilding and strategic recalibration, the Toffees are striving for stability and a sustained push into the Premier League’s top half. A victory against a team of Newcastle’s calibre would not only provide a massive boost to their own European aspirations – perhaps a late charge for the Europa Conference League – but also serve as a powerful statement of their progress. This encounter promises a captivating tactical battle, a clash of contrasting styles, and individual moments of brilliance that could swing the outcome. Fans should anticipate a fiercely contested affair, where passion, precision, and pressure will dictate the flow of a match with genuine ramifications for the aspirations of two historic English clubs.

2. CURRENT FORM & STANDINGS

Newcastle United FC enter this contest in robust form, currently occupying a coveted 5th position in the Premier League table. With 47 points from 26 games, they boast a healthy goal difference of +18, underscoring both their attacking prowess and defensive resilience. Their recent league run has been impressive, securing 10 points from their last five matches (W3 D1 L1). This sequence includes dominant victories over West Ham and Fulham, a hard-fought draw against Brighton, and a narrow, albeit frustrating, loss away to Manchester City. The Magpies have shown an ability to grind out results and demonstrate clinical finishing when opportunities arise, reflecting a squad that has matured significantly. Momentum is largely with them, propelled by strong performances at their designated home fixtures and a clear sense of purpose.

Everton FC, meanwhile, arrive on Tyneside (or wherever the unknown venue may be) sitting 11th in the league standings. With 34 points from 26 games and a goal difference of -5, they find themselves in a transitional phase, looking to consolidate a comfortable mid-table position while keeping an outside eye on a late European push. Their recent form has been a mixed bag, yielding 7 points from their last five league outings (W2 D1 L2). This includes spirited wins against Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace, a creditable draw with Aston Villa, but also defeats to Arsenal and Chelsea. The Toffees have demonstrated flashes of their potential, particularly their defensive solidity and threat from set-pieces, but have struggled with consistency, especially in front of goal against the league’s tougher opponents. They will be looking to break a pattern of inconsistency against top-half teams and prove their mettle in this demanding away fixture.

3. HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY

The historical rivalry between Newcastle United and Everton is steeped in tradition, marked by periods of dominance for both sides and numerous memorable encounters. Over the years, the overall record leans slightly in favour of Everton, but recent history tells a different story.

Across all competitions, the two clubs have met over 180 times. In the Premier League era, the encounters have often been tight and fiercely contested. Looking at the last ten Premier League meetings:

Newcastle Wins: 4
Everton Wins: 4
Draws: 2

This balanced recent record highlights the competitive nature of this fixture, with neither side consistently able to assert long-term superiority. The matches have frequently been decided by fine margins, individual errors, or moments of brilliance.

Recent Encounters of Note:
Last Season (2024/25) – Premier League:
Everton 1 – 0 Newcastle: A solitary goal from Dominic Calvert-Lewin sealed a narrow victory for Everton at Goodison Park, a result that significantly impacted Newcastle’s European push at the time.
Newcastle 2 – 2 Everton: A thrilling draw at the Magpies’ home ground saw Newcastle twice come from behind, showcasing their resilience but also a vulnerability at the back. Goals from Alexander Isak and a late Bruno Guimarães equalizer salvaged a point.
Season Before (2023/24) – Premier League:
Newcastle 3 – 1 Everton: A dominant display from Newcastle, with goals from Isak, Barnes, and a penalty from Kieran Trippier.
Everton 2 – 0 Newcastle: A disciplined performance from Everton, frustrating Newcastle’s attack and capitalizing on defensive errors.

These recent patterns suggest that while Newcastle generally perform strongly at home, Everton possess the tactical discipline and individual quality to cause upsets. There isn’t a clear psychological edge for either side; rather, the matches tend to be defined by current form, key individual performances, and the tactical battle waged by the managers. Both teams know they must be at their absolute best to secure victory in this evenly matched rivalry.

4. TEAM NEWS & SQUAD ANALYSIS

Both managers will be meticulously assessing their squads, with injuries and suspensions always a factor in the demanding Premier League schedule.

Newcastle United FC – Likely Starting XI (4-3-3):

Goalkeeper: Nick Pope
Defenders: Tino Livramento, Sven Botman, Fabian Schär, Dan Burn
Midfielders: Bruno Guimarães (C), Joelinton, Sandro Tonali
Forwards: Anthony Gordon, Alexander Isak, Harvey Barnes

Team News & Analysis:
Newcastle are understood to be without key right-back Kieran Trippier, who is serving a one-match suspension after accumulating five yellow cards. This likely sees the energetic Tino Livramento step in, offering pace and attacking thrust down the flank but perhaps a slight reduction in dead-ball expertise. Midfielder Elliot Anderson is also sidelined with a hamstring strain, though his absence is mitigated by the strong form of Joelinton and the continued integration of Sandro Tonali, who has truly found his rhythm in the Premier League.

The core of Newcastle’s strength lies in their midfield triumvirate of Guimarães, Joelinton, and Tonali, offering a blend of defensive steel, progressive passing, and box-to-box dynamism. Up front, the pace and directness of Gordon and Barnes on the wings, flanking the clinical Alexander Isak, create a formidable attacking unit capable of devastating counter-attacks and intricate build-up play. Defensive stalwart Sven Botman remains the linchpin at the back, partnered by the experienced Fabian Schär. The bench options, including Callum Wilson, Joe Willock, and Jacob Murphy, provide excellent depth for impact substitutions, especially in attacking areas.

Everton FC – Likely Starting XI (4-4-2):

Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (C)
Defenders: Ashley Young, James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite, Vitaliy Mykolenko
Midfielders: Jack Harrison, Amadou Onana, Idrissa Gueye, Dwight McNeil
Forwards: Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Beto

Team News & Analysis:
Everton face a significant blow with the absence of their influential midfielder, Abdoulaye Doucouré, who is recovering from a groin injury and is not expected to feature. This necessitates a more conservative midfield pairing of Amadou Onana and the veteran Idrissa Gueye, focusing on ball winning and defensive solidity. Young full-back Nathan Patterson is also a doubt, meaning Ashley Young is likely to continue at right-back, bringing experience but perhaps lacking the raw pace to contain Newcastle’s wingers.

The Toffees’ strength traditionally lies in their defensive organization and physical presence. The centre-back pairing of James Tarkowski and the highly-rated Jarrad Branthwaite forms a robust barrier, protected by the combative Onana. In attack, the partnership of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto offers a powerful, direct threat, particularly in aerial duels and hold-up play. Wingers Jack Harrison and Dwight McNeil provide width and delivery, with McNeil’s set-piece expertise being a key weapon. The squad depth, while improving, might be tested if injuries accumulate, but players like Arnaut Danjuma and Youssef Chermiti offer alternative attacking options from the bench.

5. KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

The outcome of this crucial Premier League clash could hinge on the individual brilliance and tactical discipline of a select few players from each side.

For Newcastle United:

Bruno Guimarães (Midfielder): The undisputed heartbeat of Newcastle. Guimarães dictates the tempo of play, linking defence to attack with his exceptional passing range and vision. His ability to break up opposition attacks, initiate swift counters, and deliver defence-splitting passes makes him indispensable. In high-stakes games like this, his composure under pressure and leadership will be crucial in controlling the midfield battle against Everton’s physical presence. Watch for his incisive through balls and long-range efforts.

Alexander Isak (Striker): Newcastle’s primary goal threat. Isak’s blend of pace, exquisite close control, and clinical finishing makes him one of the league’s most dangerous strikers. His intelligent movement off the ball often creates space for himself and his teammates, while his ability to score with either foot or his head makes him unpredictable. Against a robust Everton defence, Isak’s quickness and ability to exploit even small gaps will be vital for breaking the deadlock. His recent form suggests he’s in a rich vein of goal-scoring confidence.

Anthony Gordon (Winger): The former Everton man returns to face his old club, always a narrative booster. Gordon’s electrifying pace, direct dribbling, and relentless work rate on the left wing have made him a fan favourite and a constant menace for opposition full-backs. He’s developed a keen eye for goal and an improved final ball. His ability to drive into the box, win fouls in dangerous areas, and link up with Isak will be a key avenue for Newcastle’s attack. His emotional connection to the fixture could either fuel a standout performance or lead to overexertion – a fascinating subplot to watch.

For Everton FC:

Amadou Onana (Midfielder): The Belgian powerhouse is the engine room of Everton’s midfield. Onana’s immense physicality, tireless work rate, and ball-winning capabilities are crucial for disrupting opposition attacks and providing a defensive shield. He also possesses the ability to drive forward with the ball, breaking lines and initiating attacks. His battle with Guimarães and Joelinton in the centre of the park will be a defining aspect of the match, as his ability to dominate the physical exchanges will be key to Everton’s hopes of stifling Newcastle’s creative flow.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Striker): When fit and firing, Calvert-Lewin remains Everton’s most potent attacking weapon. His aerial prowess, hold-up play, and ability to lead the line effectively make him a handful for any defence. He is adept at bringing wingers and midfielders into play and is always a threat from crosses and set-pieces. Against Newcastle’s strong central defenders, Calvert-Lewin’s ability to win headers and occupy multiple defenders will be crucial in creating chances for himself and his strike partner, Beto. His goal in the reverse fixture last season will be fresh in his memory.

Jarrad Branthwaite (Centre-back): The young English defender has blossomed into one of the Premier League’s most promising talents. Branthwaite combines imposing physicality with surprising speed and excellent positional awareness. His ability to read the game, make crucial interceptions, and distribute the ball effectively from the back makes him a cornerstone of Everton’s defence. He will be tasked with containing the likes of Isak and Gordon, a significant challenge that will test his burgeoning reputation. His performance will be pivotal in whether Everton can withstand Newcastle’s attacking onslaught.

6. TACTICAL BREAKDOWN

This fixture promises a fascinating tactical chess match between two managers known for their meticulous planning and adherence to distinct philosophies.

Newcastle United’s Expected Approach (4-3-3):

Newcastle under their current management typically deploy a high-intensity, aggressive 4-3-3 formation, which can fluidly shift to a 4-2-3-1 depending on the opposition and phase of play.
Pressing Intensity: Expect a high-pressing game, particularly in the opponent’s half, aimed at forcing Everton into errors and winning the ball back quickly. The front three, supported by the advanced midfielders (Joelinton and Tonali), will initiate the press, cutting off passing lanes to Everton’s deeper midfielders.
Build-up Patterns: From the back, goalkeeper Nick Pope is comfortable playing out short to the centre-backs, Sven Botman and Fabian Schär, who are adept at finding Bruno Guimarães. Guimarães acts as the primary orchestrator, spraying passes to the wide players or driving forward. Newcastle often overload one side of the pitch with a full-back and winger, creating numerical advantages before switching play quickly to the opposite flank.
Attacking Play: The wide players, Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes, are crucial for providing pace, directness, and crosses for Alexander Isak. Isak’s intelligent movement and ability to drop deep or run in behind will stretch Everton’s defence. Set-pieces are also a major weapon, with Schär and Botman providing aerial threats and Guimarães’ delivery being pinpoint.
Defensive Setup: When out of possession and unable to press high, Newcastle will drop into a compact mid-block, denying space in central areas. The full-backs, Livramento and Burn, will be tasked with tracking Everton’s wingers, while the midfield three will screen the defence and break up play. Their defensive discipline and collective effort are key to their strong goal difference.

Everton FC’s Expected Approach (4-4-2):

Everton, renowned for their defensive solidity and pragmatic approach, are likely to set up in a disciplined 4-4-2 or a compact 4-2-3-1, prioritizing stability and looking to exploit transitions.
Pressing Intensity: Everton will likely adopt a more conservative mid-block, not committing to a high press unless specific triggers are met. Their focus will be on maintaining their defensive shape, forcing Newcastle wide, and preventing central penetration. Amadou Onana and Idrissa Gueye will be crucial in winning the ball in midfield.
Build-up Patterns: While capable of playing out from the back, Everton often opt for a more direct approach, especially when under pressure. Jordan Pickford’s long distribution will aim to find Dominic Calvert-Lewin or Beto, who are excellent at winning aerial duels and holding up the ball. This allows the wingers and central midfielders to push forward in support.
Attacking Play: Their primary attacking threats will come from set-pieces and quick counter-attacks. Dwight McNeil’s left foot provides dangerous delivery from corners and free-kicks, targeting the aerial prowess of Calvert-Lewin, Beto, and the centre-backs. On the break, Jack Harrison’s pace and Calvert-Lewin’s powerful runs will be key. They will aim to exploit any spaces left by Newcastle’s attacking full-backs.
Defensive Setup: The back four, particularly the central pairing of Tarkowski and Branthwaite, is well-drilled and resilient. They will aim to stay compact, limit space between the lines, and challenge every aerial ball. The wide midfielders, Harrison and McNeil, will have significant defensive responsibilities, tracking back to support their full-backs against Newcastle’s attacking wide players.

Tactical Matchup:
The midfield battle will be pivotal. Guimarães’s creativity versus Onana’s physicality will be fascinating. Newcastle will aim to dominate possession and territory, using their full-backs to push high and create overloads. Everton will look to frustrate Newcastle, absorb pressure, and then hit them on the counter or capitalize on set-piece opportunities. The battle between Isak and Everton’s strong centre-backs, and Gordon’s pace against Ashley Young, will be key individual duels. Newcastle’s ability to break down a well-organized, deep-sitting defence will be tested, while Everton’s discipline and clinical edge in transitions will determine their success.

7. STRENGTHS vs WEAKNESSES

This detailed comparison highlights where each team holds an advantage and where they might be vulnerable, setting the stage for how the tactical battle could unfold.

Newcastle United FC:

Strengths:
Midfield Control & Creativity: The trio of Guimarães, Joelinton, and Tonali offers a formidable blend of defensive solidity, ball retention, and progressive passing, allowing Newcastle to dictate the tempo and create numerous attacking opportunities.
Attacking Firepower: With Alexander Isak leading the line and the pace and directness of Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes on the wings, Newcastle possess genuine goalscoring threats from various avenues. Their ability to transition quickly from defence to attack is lethal.
Defensive Organization: Under their current management, Newcastle have become incredibly difficult to break down, boasting one of the league’s best defensive records. Sven Botman and Fabian Schär form a robust central partnership, protected by a diligent midfield.
Set-Piece Threat: With excellent delivery from Guimarães and Trippier (when available) and strong aerial presence from their defenders and Joelinton, Newcastle are a significant threat from corners and free-kicks.
Weaknesses:
Vulnerability to Counter-Attacks: When their full-backs push high, Newcastle can sometimes be susceptible to quick, direct counter-attacks, especially if their midfield press is bypassed. Teams with fast wingers and clinical strikers can exploit this space.
Reliance on Key Individuals: While squad depth has improved, injuries to players like Guimarães or Isak can significantly impact their creative output and goalscoring efficiency.
Breaking Down Deep Blocks: Against teams that sit very deep and deny space, Newcastle can occasionally struggle to find the incisive pass or create enough clear-cut chances, sometimes resorting to hopeful crosses.

Everton FC:

Strengths:
Defensive Solidity & Organization: Everton are notoriously difficult to score against, particularly when they set up in a low block. The central defensive partnership of Tarkowski and Branthwaite is physically imposing and well-drilled, protected by a tenacious midfield.
Physicality in Midfield: Amadou Onana and Idrissa Gueye provide a powerful and combative presence in the engine room, excellent at breaking up play, winning duels, and screening the defence.
Aerial Threat & Set-Piece Prowess: With Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Beto, and their central defenders, Everton are a significant threat from set-pieces, both offensively and defensively. Dwight McNeil’s delivery is a key weapon.
Direct Attacking Threat: They possess players capable of powerful hold-up play and direct runs, allowing them to bypass midfield battles and create opportunities quickly, especially on the counter-attack.
Weaknesses:
Inconsistent Goalscoring: Despite having powerful strikers, Everton have often struggled for consistent goalscoring, particularly against top-half opposition. They can create chances but sometimes lack the clinical edge.
Lack of Consistent Creativity: While they have dynamic players, sustained creative play through intricate passing movements can sometimes be lacking, often relying on individual moments or set-pieces for their attacking impetus.
Vulnerability to Pace in Wide Areas: While their full-backs are diligent, they can be exposed by very quick and tricky wingers who can isolate them in one-on-one situations, especially if midfield cover is slow to arrive.
Maintaining Intensity for 90 Minutes: Against high-energy teams like Newcastle, Everton can sometimes struggle to maintain their defensive intensity for the full duration, leading to late lapses.

How the Opposition May Exploit Them:

Newcastle exploiting Everton: Newcastle will look to exploit Everton’s potential lack of pace at full-back (especially if Ashley Young starts) with the directness of Gordon and Barnes. They will aim to stretch Everton’s compact defence, then use Isak’s movement to find pockets of space between the centre-backs. Guimarães will try to bypass Onana and Gueye with quick, incisive passes into the feet of the forwards, or by exploiting the half-spaces.
Everton exploiting Newcastle: Everton will aim to frustrate Newcastle’s build-up by maintaining a disciplined mid-block, forcing them into hopeful long balls or wide areas where they can double up. On the counter, they will look to launch quick balls over the top for Calvert-Lewin and Beto to chase, or down the channels to exploit the advanced positions of Newcastle’s full-backs. Set-pieces will be a primary weapon, aiming to capitalize on any defensive lapses from Newcastle.

8. MATCH PREDICTION & BETTING ODDS

This promises to be a tightly contested affair, but Newcastle’s superior home form (even in an unknown venue setting as the designated home team), current momentum, and greater attacking depth give them a distinct edge. While Everton will undoubtedly put up a resolute defensive display, Newcastle’s relentless pressure and individual quality should eventually tell.

Predicted Score: Newcastle United 2 – 1 Everton FC

Key Factors That Will Decide the Game:

Midfield Battle: The contest between Bruno Guimarães and Amadou Onana will be crucial. Whichever team gains control of the central areas will likely dictate the tempo and flow of the match.
Clinical Finishing: Against Everton’s disciplined defence, Newcastle will need to be clinical with the chances they create. Conversely, Everton’s ability to convert their limited opportunities, especially from set-pieces or counter-attacks, will be paramount.
Wing Play: The performances of Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes against Everton’s full-backs, and conversely, Jack Harrison and Dwight McNeil against Newcastle’s wide defenders, will be vital in creating attacking impetus.
Set Pieces: Both teams possess significant aerial threats and good delivery. A goal from a corner or free-kick could easily swing the momentum of the game.
Individual Errors: In such a tight contest, a single mistake from either defence or midfield could be the difference-maker.

Likely Match Events & Betting Odds Analysis (Hypothetical):

First Goal Scorer:
Alexander Isak (Newcastle): Strong favourite, given his form and central role.
Anthony Gordon (Newcastle): Always a threat, especially with the emotional connection.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Everton): Strong possibility from a set-piece or direct play.
Total Goals: Expecting 2-3 goals. Over 2.5 goals might be a tempting bet, but a tight 1-0 or 2-0 is also plausible given Everton’s defence.
Corners: Newcastle typically win a high number of corners due to their attacking style. Over 9.5 total corners seems likely.
Cards: The midfield battle and direct wing play could lead to several bookings. Over 3.5 cards in the match is a reasonable expectation, particularly for players like Joelinton, Onana, and Tarkowski.
Possession: Newcastle United are expected to dominate possession (around 60-65%).
Betting Odds (Hypothetical):
Newcastle Win: 1.75 (Strong favourites)
Draw: 3.75 (Decent value for a tight game)
Everton Win: 4.75 (Underdogs, but not impossible)
* Both Teams to Score (BTTS): 1.90 (Good probability given both teams’ attacking potential and defensive vulnerabilities)

Newcastle’s home advantage, even at an unknown venue, combined with their consistent form and attacking prowess, should see them edge out a resilient Everton side. However, the Toffees’ defensive discipline and set-piece threat mean the Magpies cannot afford to be complacent.

9. CONCLUSION

As the Premier League season marches towards its crescendo, the clash between Newcastle United and Everton on February 28th, 2026, emerges as a pivotal encounter for both clubs. For Newcastle, it represents another crucial step in their ambitious pursuit of European football, a chance to consolidate their position and maintain the relentless momentum that has defined their recent ascendancy. For Everton, it’s an opportunity to make a significant statement, to prove their growth and stability by taking points from a top-half contender, potentially reigniting their own late charge for continental qualification.

This fixture promises a captivating blend of Newcastle’s high-octane attacking football and disciplined pressing against Everton’s formidable defensive organization and potent counter-attacking threat. The midfield battle, the individual duels between star players, and the tactical acumen of both managers will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the match. Expect moments of individual brilliance, potential flashpoints of controversy, and a relentless fight for every inch of the pitch. Regardless of the undisclosed venue, the intensity and passion will be palpable. This is more than just three points; it’s a battle for identity, ambition, and the right to climb higher in the Premier League hierarchy. Tune in for what promises to be an enthralling Premier League spectacle.