Union Saint-Gilloise hosts Newcastle United today in the UEFA Champions League group stage at Lotto Park in Brussels.

It’s the first time Union SG have played a Champions League group-stage match at home — though Lotto Park isn’t actually their home. Their usual ground, Stade Joseph Marien, does not meet UEFA requirements, so the Belgians have relocated to Anderlecht’s stadium for the occasion.

The Belgian side are unbeaten in their last seven home fixtures in UEFA competitions and will be determined to extend that streak against Premier League visitors Newcastle United.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has made clear that he views Union SG as one of the more intriguing opponents his side will face. Their bright start to the season — including a shock 3–1 win over PSV on Matchday 1 — has not gone unnoticed. Howe admitted Union’s powerful forwards will test Newcastle’s defense and predicted a tactically demanding contest.

Union coach Sébastien Pocognoli echoed that sentiment, calling tonight’s clash an opportunity to measure themselves on the European stage and see exactly where they stand. Defender Kevin Mac Allister added: “Sometimes we play deep and on the counter, sometimes probing gaps with movement.”

The match storyline carries a distinctly English flavor. Defender Ross Sykes, a lifelong Newcastle supporter, is facing his boyhood club on Europe’s biggest stage. London-born captain Christian Burgess embodies Union’s unorthodox yet inspiring rise. Both players highlight the unconventional paths that mirror the club’s broader underdog story.

Both coaches promised “intensity,” and that is exactly what supporters can expect. Union’s energetic pressing style, on full display against PSV, will be met by Newcastle’s own physical edge.

Union is no stranger to English opposition. In the 2023–24 Europa League, they memorably beat Liverpool 2–1 at home after losing 2–0 at Anfield. The post-match celebrations to “Vamos a la Playa” went viral across Belgium, a tune that could well return if Union springs another upset.

Starting Lineups

Union Saint-Gilloise

Scherpen; Mac Allister, Burgess, Leysen, Khalaili; Van De Perre, Zorgane, Niang; Aït El Hadj, David, Rodriguez

Subs: Chambaere, Barry, Rasmussen, Guilherme Smith, Schoofs, Giger, Boufal, Sykes, Patris, Berradi

Suspended: Florucz

Newcastle United

Pope; Burn, Botman, Thiaw, Trippier; Joelinton, Tonali, Bruno Guimarães (c); Gordon, Woltemade, Elanga

Subs: Thompson, Ramsdale, Hall, Schär, Barnes, Krafth, Osula, J. Murphy, Willock, A. Murphy, Miley

Head-to-Head

This is the first-ever meeting between Union Saint-Gilloise and Newcastle United in European competition.

Prediction

Union SG’s energy and home support at Lotto Park will make this a tricky fixture, but Newcastle’s attacking quality and midfield control should prove decisive.

Projected Score: Newcastle United 2, Union Saint-Gilloise 1

How to Watch Union Saint-Gilloise vs. Newcastle United

The match is set to kick off at 12:45 PM Eastern on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Lotto Park in Brussels, Belgium.

The match airs live exclusively on Paramount+ in the United States. Paramount+ plans start at $7.99/month, but you can watch the match for free by signing up for a free trial here.

Union Saint-Gilloise vs. Newcastle United

Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Time: 12:45 PM Eastern

Venue: Lotto Park, Brussels, Belgium

Streaming: Paramount+


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