Manchester United v Newcastle Betting Tips [26 February 2023]

The Carabao Cup final is set to kick off at Wembley with Manchester United seeking to become league cup champions for the sixth time in the club’s history while Newcastle can become first time winners. The Red Devils last lifted the trophy in 2017 when they defeated Southampton 3-2 while Newcastle’s one and only prior appearance in the final resulted in a 2-1 loss to Manchester City way back in 1976. Manchester United should enter this cup final with loads of confidence after their come from behind 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the Europa League knockout play-off round on Thursday to advance to the round of 16 with an aggregate score of 4-3. The morale-boosting win has now made it nine matches unbeaten for Manchester United, seven of which have resulted in wins. Manager Erik ten Hag will have to manage his team’s fatigue as they come into this match with a clear rest disadvantage – this will be United’s eighth match in the month of February while their opponents will be playing their fourth.

Newcastle likely will not be intimidated regardless of their opponents red-hot form. The Magpies continue their dream season that has them competing for a Champions League berth by way of a top four league finish. Newcastle currently sits fifth in the standings but trail fourth-place Tottenham and have a game in hand. They advanced to the final by defeating Southampton in both legs of the semi-final, one of four Premier League sides they faced on route to this final. Newcastle have hit a bit of a speed bump in recent weeks after falling 2-0 at home to Liverpool last weekend which was their first home league defeat of the season. It’s now three matches without a victory for Newcastle although it must be said that they have only suffered two defeats during the entire season. Newcastle also come into this game without their goalkeeper Nick Pope. He's suspended after being sent off against Liverpool last weekend and their third choice goalie Loris Kariuswill be between the sticks, making his debut for the club.

The suspension of Nick Pope is a huge loss for Eddie Howe as he has been one of the Magpies’ players of the season with his reliable shot stopping in goal. This in-form Manchester United team that has been scoring goals for fun is going to be tough for backup Loris Karius, who does not have the best history in cup finals after losing to Real Madrid in the Champions League while playing for Liverpool. Ultimately, we expect the Red Devils to get the win in the 90 minute regulation time and lift the Carabao Cup trophy for a sixth time. Our Manchester United vs Newcastle prediction: Manchester United to win