February 13, 2026

Two PL clubs clash in Birmingham Cup Tie

The FA Cup winners of 1957 and 1955 respectively meet in what we expect to be a wide-open contest. Both Aston Villa and Newcastle have ambitions in both league and cup competitions, and Villa Park provides an excellent setting for a duel between two physically strong PL sides. Let’s take a closer look at what to expect in one of this weekend’s big cup matches from England.

Match Analysis

The Birmingham hosts have appeared as one of the top league’s most solid home sides this season. Under the leadership of Unai Emery, Villa have gained a clear structure, with Ollie Watkins playing a key offensive role.

There was talk earlier in the season of Aston Villa being serious PL title challengers. Stranger things have happened in football than Arsenal dropping seven points, but Manchester City would also need to stumble badly for Villa to run away with the league trophy. With Newcastle currently down in 10th place, it’s fair to say the FA Cup represents the most realistic route to silverware for both clubs in 2026.

The visitors have produced a mixed season. When Eddie Howe’s men hit top gear, they can challenge anyone. However, their away record in the FA Cup should keep Magpies fans awake at night: Newcastle have lost 10 of their last 13 FA Cup matches against PL opposition when playing away. Goals have also been scarce in most of those fixtures.

Aston Villa have not progressed beyond the fourth round in two consecutive seasons since the period around 2010. That alone should provide extra motivation ahead of this weekend’s tie.

Team News

Midfield availability is a key focus for both sides ahead of the clash. Aston Villa are missing several central players, including Boubacar Kamara, Youri Tielemans and John McGinn.

For Newcastle, Joelinton and Lewis Miley are definitely unavailable, while Bruno Guimarães remains a doubt after feeling his hamstring in the previous match.

Odds and Tips

Home advantage and slightly more consistent performances give Aston Villa a narrow edge. However, Newcastle possess enough quality to make this a completely open contest.

Tip: Aston Villa to progress, with a tight game likely — for example a 2–1 win for the home side at 8.00.

Odds might have changed since the writing and/or publication of this article.
Last Updated: 13.02.2026