EPL Betting Prediction and Preview: Arsenal vs Newcastle United

A high-stakes Premier League fixture unfolds at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. Second-placed Arsenal host third-placed Newcastle United in a pivotal battle for Champions League qualification.

Both sides are on the brink of securing their spots in next season’s continental campaign. A win in North London could potentially confirm that goal. For Eddie Howe and his Magpies, there’s also the prospect of maintaining a rare dominance over the Gunners this season.

Arsenal Searching for a Spark After Weeks of Inconsistent Form

Mikel Arteta’s men were involved in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Anfield last weekend. Liverpool raced into a two-goal lead before Gabriel Martinelli and the now-suspended Mikel Merino sparked a spirited second-half response. Despite the comeback, Arteta focused his post-match remarks on his team’s sluggish start. This was an indication of the high standards expected in their push for silverware.

That result, however, extended Arsenal’s winless streak to five matches in all competitions. While a top-five finish – and a Champions League berth – looks extremely likely, the Gunners have struggled to close out the season in convincing fashion. Their recent home record is also troubling, with no wins in their last four Emirates outings across all competitions (0-2-2). Furthermore, there is the prospect of three straight home defeats for the first time since 2019.

To make matters worse, Newcastle have beaten Arsenal three times already this season. They won twice in the EFL Cup and once in the league. Therefore, Sunday’s match is not only a battle for points but also redemption for the North London outfit.

Arsenal will be without Mikel Merino due to suspension. Meanwhile, Gabriel Magalhaes, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Jorginho and Gabriel Jesus are all sidelined with various injuries. On the brighter side, Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, and Kai Havertz – who all suffered hamstring issues – returned to training midweek and remain in contention. However, Havertz looks least likely to stand a chance after a long-term injury layoff.

Yet, Arteta could be forced to rotate his squad. Oleksandr Zinchenko may potentially slot into a midfield role, and youngster Ethan Nwaneri might push for a start out wide.

Newcastle Eye Historic Leap into Second Place with Victory at Arsenal

Newcastle United head into Sunday’s blockbuster clash at the Emirates just two points adrift of second-placed Arsenal. A win in North London wouldn’t just secure their return to the Champions League. It would also catapult Eddie Howe’s men above the Gunners and potentially seal their highest Premier League finish in the 21st century. With momentum on their side and a dominant head-to-head record this season, the Magpies are daring to dream of silver linings beyond fourth place.

Eddie Howe’s side are firing on all cylinders at the right moment. A 2-0 victory over Chelsea last time out kept their podium hopes alive. Midfield maestros Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali delivered key performances. The Magpies have now scored in 11 consecutive matches across all competitions. This follows a 2-0 defeat at Anfield in late February, and they are playing with a sharp edge in the final third.

However, their away form remains inconsistent with just two wins from their last six Premier League games on the road. Still, Newcastle haven’t lost their final away game of a league season since 2017-18. The possibility of completing an unprecedented four wins against Arsenal in a single campaign adds further motivation.

Newcastle, meanwhile, have concerns over Dutch defender Sven Botman, who picked up a knock against Chelsea. Joe Willock also remains a doubt, while Lewis Hall, Matt Targett, Kieran Trippier and Joelinton are all expected to miss out. Emil Krafth or Jamaal Lascelles may fill in at the back.

Possible Starting Lineups of Arsenal and Newcastle United 

Arsenal: David Raya – Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly – Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Oleksandr Zinchenko – Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Ethan Nwaneri. (4-3-3) 

Newcastle United: Nick Pope – Emil Krafth, Fabian Schar, Dan Burn – Jacob Murphy, Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes, Tino Livramento – Harvey Barnes, Anthony Gordon; Alexander Isak. (3-4-3) 

Spooky Express Betting Prediction 

Given both teams’ recent inconsistencies – Arsenal’s struggles at home and Newcastle’s mixed away form – a draw appears to be the most likely outcome in this closely matched fixture. Arsenal’s ongoing injury problems and their inability to find rhythm at the Emirates give Newcastle a real opportunity to leave North London with at least a point. At the same time, the Magpies have looked sharp in attack and have already beaten the Gunners three times this season. Thus, backing Newcastle to avoid defeat in a game featuring at least two goals is a smart betting angle at Everygame. 

Another solid option is to bet on Alexander Isak to find the net at any time. The Swedish striker is in fine form and poses a significant threat to a patched-up Arsenal defense.

Spooky Express Free Play: X2 (Newcastle or Draw) and Over 1.5 Goals +130 at EveryGame for 5/10 Units

Spooky Express Free Play 2: Alexander Isak Anytime Goalscorer +170 at EveryGame for 4/10 Units