As the EFL Cup champions, Newcastle United aim to solidify their pursuit for Champions League football when they take on Brentford in a crucial Premier League clash at St James' Park this Wednesday.

Currently sitting sixth in the league with 47 points, the Magpies are just two points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea. Meanwhile, Brentford stands in mid-table at 11th place with 41 points, fresh off a solid 2-1 victory against Bournemouth on March 15.

Match Preview

Newcastle secured their first major trophy in 70 years with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the EFL Cup final on March 16. Their success was driven by remarkable physicality, winning 58% of duels against the Reds. Prior to that, Eddie Howe's side managed a narrow 1-0 victory over West Ham United, breaking a streak without a clean sheet in their last seven league matches.

The battle for European football is heating up, with just five points separating tenth-placed Bournemouth from Chelsea, making every match critical for teams like Newcastle and Brentford.

However, Newcastle has had a hit-or-miss spell recently; they have won two and lost two of their last four games across all competitions, and have faced a mixed bag in their past five league outings, winning two but losing three. At home, their record has been shaky as well, having lost three of their last five matches at St James' Park.

On the other hand, Brentford is experiencing a resurgence. After an initial slump of seven losses and two draws in their first nine away matches, the Bees have turned the tide, winning their last five league games on the road with an impressive 14 goals scored and only two conceded.

Tactical Showdown

Brentford's latest victory against Bournemouth showcased their proficiency with set pieces, scoring both goals from dead-ball situations despite generating only 0.2 expected goals from open play. This tactical setup has accounted for nearly a third of their goal attempts this season, making them a team to watch for free-kick and corner opportunities.

In their two matchups this season, Brentford has had the upper hand once, winning 4-2 in the league back in December, but also faced defeat in the EFL Cup, losing 3-1 later that month.

Team News

Eddie Howe is grappling with defensive challenges as Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman, and Lewis Hall are all unavailable. Expect a back four of Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Dan Burn, and Tino Livramento to feature against the Bees. Winger Anthony Gordon remains sidelined with a hip injury, likely leading to a front three of Alexander Isak, flanked by Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy.

Brentford's squad could see the absence of key attackers Gustavo Gomes, Fabio Carvalho, Thiago Rodrigues, and Joshua Dasilva. They'll rely on Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa up front, possibly supplemented by Mikkel Damsgaard and Kevin Schade.

Predicted Lineups

Newcastle United: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Livramento; Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Barnes

Brentford: Flekken; Ajer, Collins, Pinnock, Lewis-Potter; Norgaard, Janelt; Mbeumo, Damsgaard, Schade; Wissa

Final Thoughts

In what promises to be a breathtaking encounter, the prediction leans towards a close edge for Brentford, potentially sealing a 2-1 victory. Their ability to match Newcastle’s physical style, combined with an impressive counter-attacking strategy, could lead to an upset at the iconic St James' Park. Keep your eyes peeled for what might just be an unforgettable clash!