Newcastle vs Crystal Palace prediction, H2H and probable lineups - January 4, 2026
One of the matches of the 20th round of the English Premier League will be played on Sunday at St. James' Park in Newcastle, where the home side Newcastle United will host Crystal Palace. I'm backing a bet on goals in this clash, with a strong chance of success.
Match preview
Newcastle ended 2025 on a high note, confidently dispatching Burnley away from home. However, that victory was just their second in the last six rounds, and both came against the same relegation struggler. Still, Eddie Howe's side continues to boast a formidable home record: the Magpies are unbeaten at St. James' Park since September, winning eight of their last ten matches there.
The injury situation is gradually improving. Lewis Hall avoided a serious injury, Anthony Elanga is close to returning, but the defense is still missing key players, including Trippier, Botman, and Lascelles. Despite these absences, Newcastle consistently scores twice at home, providing a solid foundation for victories even amid squad challenges.
Crystal Palace managed to snap their losing streak in the first match of the new year, drawing with Fulham, but it's far too soon to talk about stability. Oliver Glasner's team is winless in six straight games, scoring just five goals in that span—two of which came in a European clash with Finnish side KuPS.
Playing away from home could once again work in Palace's favor—they've secured all three of their recent Premier League victories on the road. However, their squad issues persist: nine players remain sidelined, including the newly-injured Chris Richards and Eddie Nketiah, as well as the absence of Ismaïla Sarr, who is away at the Africa Cup of Nations. Depth is a serious concern, making this trip especially tough.
Probable lineups
- Newcastle: Pope, Hall, Thiaw, Schär, Miley, Tonali, Ramsey, Guimarães, Gordon, Murphy, Woltemade
- Crystal Palace: Henderson, Lerma, Lacroix, Guehi, Wharton, Rodney, Clyne, Mitchell, Devenny, Pino, Mateta
Match facts and head-to-head
- Crystal Palace have failed to score in their last eight away matches against Newcastle.
- Newcastle have won six of their last nine home meetings with Palace.
- Both teams have scored in just one of Palace's last ten trips to Newcastle.
Prediction
Both teams are going through a rough patch, but Newcastle's home form and more reliable attacking options give the hosts the edge. Crystal Palace look unconvincing up front, especially given their injury woes, and their away record at St. James' Park offers little hope. The visitors might snatch a goal, but taking all three points seems unlikely.
