Newcastle United and West Bromwich Albion will meet at St. James’ Park on Wednesday night, with a place in the EFL Cup third round at stake.
Matthias Jaissle silenced some of his early doubters as Newcastle began their Premier League campaign with an entertaining 2–2 draw against Liverpool. The Magpies took the lead twice, but Dominik Szoboszlai’s stoppage-time penalty rescued a point for the visitors as the two teams shared the spoils.
Although Newcastle were unable to hold on for victory, they produced an encouraging performance under their new manager. Jaissle was pleased with the energy and commitment shown by his young side, who impressed during his first competitive match in charge at St. James’ Park.
The Magpies now turn their attention to the EFL Cup, a competition they have taken seriously in recent seasons. Newcastle won the trophy in 2024/25 to end a 70-year wait for silverware and have reached the quarter-finals in each of the last four campaigns. They also have a strong record against West Brom, winning seven and drawing four of their last 14 meetings in all competitions.
West Brom have made an excellent start to their Championship campaign after narrowly avoiding relegation last season. The Baggies opened with a 2–1 away victory over Norwich City before producing a 3-1 comeback win against Burnley.
Isaac Price was the standout performer against Burnley, scoring twice in the second half to help West Brom maintain their perfect league record. They also began their EFL Cup campaign with a convincing 4-1 victory away to Rotherham United.
West Brom’s recent record in the competition is less impressive, however. They have failed to progress beyond the third round in 18 of their last 20 seasons and were eliminated in the first round in each of the previous three campaigns.
Team News & Tactics
Newcastle United
There are some fitness concerns for Matthias Jaissle ahead of the tie. Dan Burn will miss the match with ankle ligament damage, while Joelinton and Tino Livramento remain sidelined with groin and calf injuries, respectively.
William Osula is expected to be available after recovering from an ankle knock, while Joe Willock could start after scoring as a substitute against Liverpool. Jaissle may also hand Nick Woltemade his first start of the season, while summer signing Bazoumana Toure could make his full debut.
Anthony Elanga or Harvey Barnes may drop to the bench, while backup goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen could also be handed his Newcastle debut. The Magpies have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Nico Gonzalez from Manchester City, although it is unclear whether the midfielder will complete the move in time to feature against West Brom.
Probable lineup (4-2-3-1): Jaouen; Shahar, Thiaw, Schar, Hall; Bamba, Willock; Murphy, Woltemade, Toure; Wissa.
West Brom
Manager James Morrison has a few selection decisions to make. Mikey Johnston is doubtful after missing the victory over Burnley with an ankle problem.
Ousmane Diakite could retain his place in midfield alongside Jayson Molumby, while Felix Horn Myhre and Rabby Nzingoula are competing for a place in the centre of the pitch.
Jimmy-Jay Morgan has scored three goals in three matches this season and is expected to lead the attack again for West Brom when they take on Newcastle United, although Tammer Bany and Barney Stewart are also options for Morrison.
Probable lineup (4-4-1-1): O’Leary; Galves, Mepham, Phillips, Townsend; Whitwell, Molumby, Diakite, Price; Myhre; Morgan
Key Stats
- Newcastle United have won seven and drawn four of their last 14 meetings with West Bromwich Albion in all competitions, losing three.
- Newcastle have reached the EFL Cup quarter-finals in each of the last four seasons and won the competition in 2024/25.
- West Brom have won their opening two Championship matches of the season.
- West Brom have failed to progress beyond the EFL Cup third round in 18 of their last 20 seasons.
Player to Watch
Nick Woltemade
Woltemade’s future has been the subject of speculation during the summer following a season in which he struggled to establish himself under Eddie Howe. He was also left out of the starting lineup against Liverpool but could be handed an opportunity from the beginning against West Brom. The German forward has plenty to prove and is not currently expected to leave Newcastle.
However, he will need to produce a performance strong enough to compete with players such as Yoane Wissa for a regular place in the team. The EFL Cup tie offers Woltemade an ideal opportunity to make an impression on Matthias Jaissle. His height, movement and ability to link with the attacking midfielders could make him a difficult opponent for West Brom’s defence.
Prediction
Newcastle United 3-1 West Bromwich Albion
West Brom are the clear underdogs and are unlikely to progress, particularly given the quality available to Newcastle United. The Baggies have made an impressive start to the season and could cause problems, but the challenge will become significantly tougher at St. James’ Park.
Matthias Jaissle will view the match as an opportunity to give his players valuable minutes while also assessing some of his fringe squad members. Newcastle may concede, but their attacking quality should prove decisive, allowing the Magpies to win comfortably and advance to the third round.
