Newcastle United host Crystal Palace today with the chance to break a 14-year New Year’s winning streak record and match defensive and scoring feats dating back to the 1950s and 90s.
Newcastle United enter 2026 seeking a fresh start at St. James’ Park as they face Crystal Palace this afternoon.
Following a disappointing end to 2025, Eddie Howe’s side has the opportunity to win consecutive opening league games of the year for the first time since 2012.
After defeating Tottenham in their 2025 opener, a victory today would end a 14-year wait to replicate back-to-back New Year successes previously achieved against Wigan and Manchester United.
Defensive milestones are also on the line as the Magpies look to extend their dominant home record against the Eagles.
Newcastle has kept four consecutive clean sheets in their recent meetings with Palace; a fifth shutout today would equal a club record set against Coventry City between 1994 and 1998.
With the potential return of Sven Botman to the starting lineup, Howe hopes to stabilize a backline that has struggled during the season’s first half.
History suggests a high-scoring affair could be in store, as Newcastle’s last two home games against Palace ended in 4-0 and 5-0 victories.
If the Magpies score four or more goals today, they will match a 70-year-old feat last accomplished against Luton Town in 1956.
While fans debate whether Yoane Wissa or Nick Woltemade should lead the line, one supporter noted, “I just can’t see him changing too much just yet.”