The FA Cup returns this weekend and Sunday’s clash at St James’s Park is among four all-Premier League ties. Both Newcastle and Brighton have had inconsistent campaigns, but with their attacking firepower, this promises to be an exciting contest for neutral fans.
With just one point and two league places separating these teams, a closely fought battle is expected. Live ITV coverage adds to the occasion but do the bookmakers see a clear favourite for this 1:45 pm Sunday kickoff? Read on for our full FA Cup match clash between NUFC and BHAFC.
NUFC vs BHA Match Odds
Newcastle enter as favourites, with several bookmakers offering 11/10 on a home victory. Brighton, meanwhile, are available at 23/10, while the draw is priced at 14/5.
These odds apply to the result in 90 minutes. Since the game must be decided on the day, the To Qualify market lists Newcastle at 8/15 and Brighton at 29/20.
Given the tight league standings, this could be a closer contest than the odds suggest. Newcastle currently sit sixth with 44 points, while Brighton trail just behind with 43 points in eighth place. However, Brighton boast the better recent form, securing 12 points from their last six matches compared to Newcastle’s six.
The Seagulls also impressed in the previous FA Cup round, overcoming Chelsea 2-1 after falling behind. Expect another closely contested battle.
Key Markets & Player Bets
A significant concern for Newcastle is the availability of Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker netted twice in last weekend’s 4-3 victory over Nottingham Forest but missed the midweek defeat to Liverpool due to a groin injury.
Isak is the 9/2 favourite to open the scoring but punters should monitor injury updates before placing a wager. If he remains sidelined, Callum Wilson is next in line at 5/1. Wilson has struggled for game time this season, featuring in only nine matches and scoring once.
Newcastle players dominate the first goalscorer market with Anthony Gordon and William Osula both at 7/1. For Brighton, Danny Welbeck leads the charge at 15/2.
Further down the list, Kaoru Mitoma offers value at 11/1. The Japanese winger has a knack for big-game goals, with one of his eight strikes this season coming in the FA Cup. For Newcastle, Jacob Murphy, who also scored against Nottingham Forest, is priced at 12/1.
Goal Markets & Score Predictions
- Both Teams to Score: Yes (8/15), No (13/8)
- Over 2.5 Goals: 4/7
- Over 3.5 Goals: 6/4
- Under 2.5 Goals: 13/10
For correct score bettors, the 2-1 Newcastle win is available at 8/1, while the same scoreline for Brighton sits at 11/1. A 2-2 draw, reflecting the tight nature of this contest, can be backed at 10/1.
Our Betting Tips Verdict For this NUFC vs BHA FA Cup Match Preview
Newcastle’s biggest concern is whether Alexander Isak will be risked. With his club’s priority being a top-four Premier League finish, they may not gamble on his fitness. Isak’s absence would be a significant blow, as he has contributed 21 goals in 30 appearances this season.
Brighton’s recent form suggests they could push Newcastle to the limit. The Seagulls have won four straight games, scoring 11 goals since their 7-0 humbling at Nottingham Forest. They also secured a 1-0 win at St James’s Park in October, thanks to a Danny Welbeck goal.
Expect a close encounter, with extra time a strong possibility. With both teams prone to defensive lapses, a high-scoring affair seems likely.
Recommended Bets
All bets apply to normal time only, ie: excluding any extra time.
Click here for latest FA Cup outright winner odds.
Matt Harris is a football & golf writer for Just Bookies. Other sports in his portfolio of specialities include cricket. Matt has contributed to innumerable large organisations and media brands. These include: Betfair, BetVictor, USA Betting & Unibet. 