Newcastle United 2-0 Athletic Club: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes’ post-match review of Newcastle United 2-0 Athletic Club in the Champions League on Wednesday, 05 November 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Well, what a cracking performance from Newcastle United, eh? They’ve gone and done it again, securing a solid 2-0 victory over Athletic Club right at home. It’s no surprise really, considering their recent form with a thumping 3-0 win over Benfica. The Magpies were in control from the get-go, with goals in the 11th and 49th minutes sealing the deal. You’ve got to hand it to them; they’ve extended their winning streak and are showing no signs of slowing down. As for Athletic Club, despite a recent 3-1 win against Qarabağ, they couldn’t find their footing today and will be disappointed with the result.

Newcastle’s players were on fire, with the team looking sharp and cohesive throughout. Athletic Club, on the other hand, struggled to create meaningful chances and seemed a bit off their game. It’s clear that Newcastle’s current form is something to be reckoned with, and they’re proving to be a tough nut to crack in the Champions League. Today’s result might not have been a shock to the system, but it certainly cements Newcastle’s place as a team to watch.

When you dive into the stats, it’s clear Newcastle United dominated possession with 58% compared to Athletic Club’s 42%. Despite having fewer corners (2 to Athletic Club’s 5), Newcastle’s quality on the ball shone through with a successful dribble percentage of 54%, significantly higher than Athletic Club’s 32%. The Magpies also kept their discipline, finishing the match without a single yellow card, while Athletic Club picked up two. These numbers paint a picture of a game where Newcastle controlled the tempo and were more effective in their play, even if Athletic Club had more set-piece opportunities.

The match’s defining moments came early and decisively. Newcastle United struck first in the 11th minute, setting the tone for the rest of the game. They doubled their lead just after halftime in the 49th minute, effectively putting the match out of reach for Athletic Club. These goals were the turning points, showcasing Newcastle’s clinical finishing and ability to capitalise on their opportunities.

Newcastle United lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Nick Pope in goal and a backline of Kieran Trippier, Malick Thiaw, Sven Botman, and Dan Burn. The midfield trio of Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton provided the engine room, while Harvey Barnes, Nick Woltemade, and Anthony Gordon led the attack. This setup allowed Newcastle to control the game and effectively transition from defense to attack, contributing significantly to their victory.

Athletic Club opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Unai Simón between the sticks and a defense consisting of Jesús Areso, Dani Vivian, Aitor Paredes, and Adama Boiro. The midfield was anchored by Alejandro Rego and Mikel Jauregizar, with Robert Navarro, Mikel Vesga, and Álex Berenguer supporting Unai Gómez up top. Despite the solid structure, Athletic Club struggled to break down Newcastle’s defense and create scoring chances.

Bruno Guimarães was our Ladbrokes’ Man of the Match, and rightly so. The midfielder was instrumental in Newcastle’s victory, controlling the tempo of the game and contributing to the team’s high possession rate. His influence in the midfield was undeniable, and his performance was a key factor in Newcastle’s dominant display.

Recent Champions League matches:

• Win: 2-0 vs Athletic Club (H)
• Win: 3-0 vs Benfica (H)

Recent Champions League matches:

• Loss: 0-2 vs Newcastle United (A)
• Win: 3-1 vs Qarabağ (H)

Currently sitting in 6th place with 9 points, Newcastle United will face Brentford on November 09, 2025 at 14:00.

Sitting in 27th place with 3 points, Athletic Club will take on Real Oviedo on November 09, 2025 at 13:00.

Ladbrokes brings you the most exciting betting promotions and the latest betting offers to enhance your experience.

For the best Champions League outright predictions, explore our Outright Betting guide.

Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.