After a goalless draw in the first meeting between Newcastle and Anzhi the return match is fully open. The match of the week is between the Geordies and the Russian millionaires.

Europa League Round of 16
St. James Park
14-03-2013 @ 20.05 UK


How are the two teams form?


Newcastle United have not had the same success as last season, currently positioned 13 in the Premier League with 33 points in 29 matches and a negative goalscorer of -10. However, the results have been better in the Europa League where they ended 2 in the group stages, just after Bordeaux.

The Russians from Anzhi Makhachkala is currently 2 in the Russian league with 41 points after 20 matches, 5 points after CSKA Moskva. In the Europa League,  they qualified for this stage of the competition after ending second in the group stages after Liverpool.


What are the probable starting XI's?

Pardew has already suggested a 'technical' starting line against Anzhi in order to make an impact against the Russian defends. Anzhi, on the other hand, will probably have the same starting XI as the last meeting, with Eto'o up front.

Elliott

Santon - Mapou - Taylor - Haidara

Cabaye - Tiote

Anita - Sissoko - Marveaux

Shola
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Eto'o

Willian - Jucilei - Boussoufa

Akhmedov - Diarra

Eshchenko - João Carlos - Ewerton - Zhirkov

Gabulov



What to expect from this match?

Being a Russian team Anzhi is to be considered one of the strongest in this year's Europa League. The Anzhi owner has spent a lot of money on some (elderly) stars, but they are capable of creating what is needed for a victory.

On the other hand, Mike Ashley, has also been out and brought in a French army. Some of them will be in play for this match, and have a great technical level which might give Anzhi problems.

I expect to see attacking football from both teams, but comparing the them I believe that Anzhi is strongest. Their players have more international experience than Newcastle and that might just be decisive for this match.


What are the odds?

Pinnaccle gives back 19/12 for a Newcastle victory while Anzhi only gives 2 at BetVictor. SportingBet gives 23/10 back on a draw.