Newcastle hosts AC Milan at St. James’ Park for the final matchday of the UEFA Champions League group stage. With each club posting five points next to their name, this clash will prove monumental to their European aspirations. However, their destinies are not under their control, as they will also need results elsewhere. Read on for an expert Newcastle vs AC Milan prediction and explore the latest Newcastle vs AC Milan odds.
- Newcastle United FC vs AC Milan, UEFA Champions League
- December 13, 2023
- 3 PM EST
- St. James’ Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, England
- ViX
Newcastle vs AC Milan Odds: Who do Sportsbooks Favor?
Newcastle are the odds-on favorites in this European showdown as they are currently priced at (-115). The Milanese are booked at 3:1 odds to triumph on Wednesday night in Northern England. If neither club can pull ahead after 90 minutes, a draw will pay out at a market-best (+300) at highly-rated online sportsbook BetOnline.
To better understand the 3-way moneyline (1X2) market, see our soccer betting tips and learn about Champions League betting odds.
Newcastle in Need of a Win
A controversial VAR call stained what could have been Newcastle’s biggest continental win in their history. In stoppage time, as the ball ricocheted off Tino Livramento's thigh and brushed his elbow, referee Szymon Marciniak deemed it grounds to grant PSG a final moment penalty. Kylian Mbappe capitalized on this opportunity, denying the Magpies a victory in what could be described as the cruelest and most contentious of ways.
Newcastle has not seen success domestically since then, falling by an aggregate score of 7-1 to Everton and Tottenham. However, both matches took place away from St. James’ Park, giving reason to believe Newcastle can bounce back in front of fans donning striped scarves. Victory on Wednesday along with a draw or loss from PSG would send the team through to the next round. Any other scenario would leave Newcastle out of European contention or potentially down to the Europa League.
Several players remain sidelined due to injuries, including Nick Pope, Jacob Murphy, Dan Burn, Elliot Anderson, Harvey Barnes, Sven Botman, Joe Willock, Matt Targett, and Javi Manquillo. Additionally, Sandro Tonali, an ex-Rossoneri midfielder, is serving a ban. There's also uncertainty around Martin Dubravka's availability due to a back issue. Meanwhile, 2018 finalist Loris Karius is on standby.
AC Milan Bringing in Legendary Zlatan as Adviser
Only six months after retiring from professional football, the beloved Swedish superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic has returned to the beautiful game. AC Milan announced on Monday that the former red-and-black-donned striker will serve as a special adviser to the owners and management team. His native country’s all-time leading goalscorer, Zlatan won domestic leagues in four different countries and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Rossoneri. Perhaps his arrival will spark a boost of morale and confidence to a Milan side that is facing elimination from the Champions League.
Pioli's squad faces a crucial need for victory at St James' Park, coupled with a wish for a Dortmund triumph over PSG, to secure the elusive second spot in the last-16.
Similar to Newcastle's fate, Milan also found themselves on the losing end of a captivating five-goal battle away against Atalanta BC in their recent Serie A clash. The loss marked Milan's fourth consecutive away game without a win.
During this period, the Rossoneri have conceded 10 goals on their rivals' turf. With both teams desperate for a win in Tyneside, expect this stretch of goal fever to continue. Milan's medical team has been attending to several injured players, such as defenders Malick Thiaw and Pierre Kalulu, both sidelined until 2024 due to hamstring and tendon issues, respectively. With Marco Pellegrino and Simon Kjaer out with heel and muscle problems, Fikayo Tomori stands as the lone fit central defender for Milan.
Goalkeeper Marco Sportiello is also dealing with a calf injury. However, there's positive news as highly sought-after winger Rafael Leao, nursing a thigh concern, is likely to be fit for the England trip. Consequently, Christian Pulisic might find himself on the bench.
Newcastle vs AC Milan Prediction and Free Betting Pick
Newcastle’s defensive gates have been wide open in recent games, and their injury woes have not helped. With both clubs yearning to secure all 3 points and make their intentions of advancing clear, a thrilling affair could be in store. Both sides will react quickly and significantly to every goal scored, looking to equalize or take the lead as soon as possible.
Goals should come in bunches due to the nature of the fixture and the state of both clubs. Milan is left with only one central defender and may see blood in the water after Newcastle’s last two poor domestic results. The over is a must play in this spot at the current spot. The line should be lined as favored to go over 3, but we are getting 2.5 at (-134) on Bovada. Take that number with confidence and enjoy the fireworks.
Odds are accurate at the time of writing but are subject to change.
Top Sportsbooks for Newcastle vs AC Milan Odds
Explore some of the best sportsbooks for online betting below. Each website is reviewed by OnlineSportsBetting for user experience, customer service, new member promos, and more.
-
EXCLUSIVE BONUS
50% bonus up to $250Play NowT&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly
-
50% bonus up to $1000Play Now
T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly
-
EXCLUSIVE BONUS 125% up to $3,125Play Now
T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly
-
50% up to $500Play Now
T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly
-
100% up to $1,000Play Now
T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly
