Newcastle vs Bournemouth Prediction 18 April 2026
🔊 In the 33rd round of the Premier League, we're in for more than just a match; it's like a "reverse interview." Andoni Iraola arrives at St. James' Park with his Bournemouth, the coach rumored to be a potential successor to Eddie Howe. For Howe himself, this is a crucial encounter, especially since he has never managed to defeat his former team in the Premier League while at Newcastle. Amidst rumors of the Englishman's potential summer departure and only three wins in the last 11 rounds, this match could be a defining moment for the Magpies.
Head-to-Head
📊 For Eddie Howe, Bournemouth is a genuine curse in his career as Newcastle's manager. Since leaving Dean Court, the Magpies have faced the Cherries seven times in the Premier League without securing a single win: five draws and one loss. In the first round of the current season, the teams played out a "goal fest" that ended in a 0-0 stalemate. Interestingly, they have already crossed paths this year in the FA Cup, where Newcastle emerged victorious, but only after a penalty shootout. In the league, Bournemouth remains a formidable barrier for the Magpies.
Head-to-head statistics Newcastle - Bournemouth

Newcastle United Team Overview
The Magpies are in a state of turbulence. With 42 points, they find themselves languishing in 14th place, burdened by a negative goal difference (-2). Who would have thought that a Champions League participant would be ending the season in the lower half of the table? They are five points away from the European spots, but Newcastle's current form is more alarming than promising. Just three wins in their last 11 Premier League matches - that's disastrous.
In the previous round, Eddie Howe's side managed to lose away to Crystal Palace, despite initially leading (1-2). Newcastle fell short in terms of clear-cut chances (2-4), conceded a frustrating late goal, and once again showed their inability to hold onto a lead. The exact same scenario unfolded in the Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland the week before (1-2).
Match Results: Newcastle United

Bournemouth Team Overview
The "Cherries" find themselves just above their opponent, sitting 11th with 45 points. Andoni Iraola's team plays an exciting, aggressive brand of football with high pressing, but they also have a negative goal difference for the season (-1). This is largely due to issues with finishing and defensive inconsistency.
However, Bournemouth are unbeaten in their last 12 Premier League matches and pulled off the biggest upset of the previous round by defeating Arsenal at the Emirates with a 2-1 scoreline. The league leaders generated an xG of 2.72 and created four dangerous chances, yet it wasn't enough to even secure a draw. Remarkably, this victory marked the Cherries' second consecutive win at the Gunners' stadium. Even on such challenging away trips, Iraola stays true to his principles, playing bold football that yields results.
Match Results: Bournemouth
Latest news
Newcastle United
❓ The Athletic reports that despite recent results, Newcastle's management continues to back head coach Eddie Howe. The board plans to reassess the situation at the end of the season. Howe, who commands respect within the club, will also be involved in this evaluation. Meanwhile, rumors are swirling about potential links to managerial heavyweights like José Mourinho and Roberto Mancini.
❌ Newcastle's injury list is concerning. Key absences include Bruno Guimarães (illness) and Fabian Schär (ankle fracture), both pivotal in midfield and defense. However, they've been sidelined for some time now. Emil Krafth also remains out following knee surgery. Additionally, Joelinton is suspended for two matches after receiving his 10th yellow card. As a result, the Magpies are likely to take the field without two of their Brazilian stars.
Bournemouth
🔚 Bournemouth have announced that Andoni Iraola will leave the club at the end of the season. "It has been an honor to manage Bournemouth, and I am proud of what we've achieved together. I feel this is the right time to step away, but I will always cherish the fantastic memories of this club," stated the Spaniard.
❌ Bournemouth are also dealing with some setbacks. Justin Kluivert and Lewis Cook, both key players, have been sidelined for a while. Additionally, Julio Soler is out with a hamstring injury, though the Argentine is far from being a regular starter.
🟨 Yellow Card Prediction
The match will be officiated by Thomas Bramall, a referee known for not hesitating to show cards: 77 yellows and 5 reds in 20 Premier League matches this season, averaging 3.9 yellow cards per game. Considering both teams employ high pressing and aren't afraid of physical duels, a flurry of challenges is guaranteed. Newcastle average 1.75 cautions per game, while Bournemouth pick up 2.28, making a bet on over 3.5 yellow cards a solid choice.
⚽ Goal Prediction
Both teams are known for their attacking style. Newcastle traditionally create plenty of chances at home, and Bournemouth don't sit back on the road. In their January cup clash, the teams netted six goals, and their defenses are currently far from perfect. Betting on both teams to score (yes) seems highly reliable, especially given that this outcome has occurred in 6 of the last 7 head-to-head meetings at St. James' Park.
🚩 Corner Prediction
The clash of styles in this match promises a high number of set-pieces. Iraola's Bournemouth are renowned for aggressive pressing and numerous crosses, inevitably leading to corners (averaging 5.56 per game). Meanwhile, Newcastle traditionally attack down the flanks at St. James' Park, averaging 7.19 corners per game, the highest in the league. Over 9.5 corners is a good bet, having hit in 14 of Bournemouth's last 16 matches.
Editor's Prediction
Newcastle, playing at St James' Park in front of their home fans, are compelled to push forward despite their injury concerns. It's crucial for them to break their losing streak as soon as possible. Bournemouth, on the other hand, neither knows how to play defensively nor intends to do so-their style relies on high pressing and vertical attacks. We anticipate that both teams will find the net multiple times, yet neither will emerge victorious, ending in a 2-2 draw. It's no coincidence that the "Cherries" are known for their penchant for draws in the Premier League. Our bet is on Bournemouth not losing. They are a particularly tricky opponent for Eddie Howe's side, significantly outperforming the "Magpies" in terms of current form and without such significant squad issues.
