BARCELONA, Spain — FC Barcelona hosts Newcastle United on Wednesday in the decisive second leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie at Spotify Camp Nou, with the aggregate score level at 1-1 after a tense 1-1 draw at St James’ Park last week.

Kickoff is set for 6:45 p.m. CET (5:45 p.m. GMT, 1:45 p.m. ET, 10:45 a.m. PT), an earlier-than-usual slot for European midweek action. The match promises high stakes as Hansi Flick’s Barcelona seeks to leverage home advantage against Eddie Howe’s resilient Newcastle side, which punched above expectations in the first leg.

The first encounter on March 10 saw Newcastle take a late lead through Harvey Barnes in the 86th minute, only for Lamine Yamal to equalize from the penalty spot in stoppage time (90+6′). That dramatic finish kept the tie alive, with Barcelona’s young star rescuing a point in a match where the hosts dominated possession but struggled to break down Newcastle’s organized defense.

Barcelona enters as clear favorites. The Catalans boast one of Europe’s most potent attacks, led by Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and the explosive Yamal. Flick’s side has shown attacking flair in the Champions League this season, scoring in every group-stage and knockout match while maintaining high pressing intensity. At home, Barcelona’s record remains formidable, with the Camp Nou crowd expected to create a cauldron atmosphere.

Newcastle, meanwhile, has impressed with defensive solidity and counter-attacking threat. Eddie Howe made five changes for the second leg, including Sandro Tonali’s return to midfield, signaling intent to disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm. Anthony Gordon, back from injury, leads the line alongside Harvey Barnes and Anthony Elanga, aiming to exploit any gaps in Barcelona’s high defensive line.

Predicted lineups reflect tactical battles:

**Barcelona (4-2-3-1):** Joan García (GK); Joao Cancelo, Pau Cubarsí, Eric García, Gerard Martin; Pedri, Marc Bernal; Fermín López, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal; Robert Lewandowski.

**Newcastle United (4-3-3):** Aaron Ramsdale (GK); Kieran Trippier, Malick Thiaw, Dan Burn, Lewis Hall; Jacob Ramsey, Sandro Tonali, Joelinton; Anthony Elanga, Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes.

Injuries and suspensions remain minimal, though Newcastle monitors fitness for key players like Tonali after a recent concern.

Predictions favor Barcelona progression. Analysts at Sports Mole, SportsGambler and others project a narrow home win, with common scorelines including 2-1 or 3-1 to Barcelona (aggregate 3-2 or 4-2). Betting markets list Barcelona at around -172 to win, reflecting a 63% implied probability. Many foresee both teams scoring and over 2.5 goals, given Barcelona’s attacking output and Newcastle’s direct style — the sides have combined for high-scoring games in recent European outings.

Key battles include Yamal vs. Newcastle’s full-backs, where the teenager’s pace and dribbling could prove decisive. Lewandowski’s movement against Newcastle’s center-backs, and midfield duels involving Pedri and Tonali, will shape possession and transitions.

Barcelona’s edge stems from home form and depth, with Flick emphasizing control and clinical finishing. Newcastle’s “superpower” atmosphere at St James’ Park helped them last week, but Camp Nou’s intensity and Barcelona’s quality should tilt the balance.

The winner advances to the quarterfinals, a massive boost for either club’s season. For Barcelona, progression would validate Flick’s project amid La Liga title challenges. For Newcastle, an upset would mark historic European progress.

Where to watch live stream and TV coverage:

– **United States:** Paramount+ (exclusive English-language streaming), with options on CBS channels in select markets.

– **United Kingdom:** TNT Sports 2 (TV), with streaming on discovery+.

– **Spain:** Movistar+ and other pay-TV platforms.

– **Canada:** DAZN.

– **Other regions:** Check UEFA.com or local broadcasters; international streams available via Paramount+ in many territories.

Fans without cable can access Paramount+ (U.S.) or equivalent services, often with free trials. Live updates and highlights will stream on UEFA’s official platforms post-match.

As kickoff nears, anticipation builds for a potential classic. Barcelona’s firepower at home makes them the side to beat, but Newcastle’s grit could force extra time or penalties if they frustrate the hosts early.