Newcastle United vs Anzhi Makhachkala: Europa League Preview!

Identical Teams: Different Ambitions!

Newcastle United FC have turned around their fortunes since their January overhaul. The french recruits have found their feet excellently at St. James' Park and now they face Anzhi who are trying to be next powerhouse in European competitions.

With both teams reaching this far in European competition after a decent time, this is where both would need to show their mettle, grit and determination to edge each other out. This game is not going to be really pretty on the eye as both teams are known to be rough and tough amidst all the attacking talent at their disposal. The leg at Moscow showed the directness of both teams with Anzhi understandably enjoying a lot more of an attacking impetus than Newcastle United, but Newcastle showing enough quality at the back to keep the home team silent.

A detail look of both teams is presented below to give a better idea on who can progress through to the next round

Managers:

Alan Pardew (Newcastle United FC)

His appointment was met with fierce criticism but he silenced those critics impeccably. The team this season has been plagued by injuries but now with an almost fit squad to choose from and a host of new names at his disposal, he is looking to set things straight. He is known to be energetic, enigmatic, and very passionate about his work, while tactically he is astute and competent. Most of the times he gets it right with his substitution and the direct style of play creates decent lot of opportunities for his Senegalese forward Papiss Cisse.

Guus Hiddink (Anzhi Makhachkala)

Experienced, cunny, calm, and a genius at work. Hiddink is your typical boss-manager who is going to tear you apart if you do not give your 100%. He may seem laid-back but inside that man is a burning passion for the game no less than Alan Pardew. He went on to the Champions League final with Chelsea, and there is no denying he might repeat at a lower level with Anzhi Makhachkala. With host of star names to work with, he might to the magic at St. James' Park tonight.

Star Performers/ Men to Watch Out:

Newcastle United

Yanga-Mbiwa

He was a rock in defense in the first leg, as he may be required to produce another stellar performance against the free-scoring Traore. 

Moussa Sissoko

Moussa Sissoko has a big say in the recent Newcastle United's resurgence. His tenacity, pace and skills have tormented teams since his arrival at tyne-side and here is another opportunity for him to raise his value at a decently competitive level.

Papiss Cisse

Just like Newcastle, a lot was expected from their previous Januray's wonder signing. Papiss Cisse came and conquered the premier league. Goals from all around the park, a menace, and a real threat upfront for the Magpies, he became a cult-favorite at Newcastle. Though, this season, his fortunes have fluctuated, a barren spell at the start of the season saw him way short off confidence. The departure of Demba Ba some what inspired him, but it was up until now that he got his real scoring boots on. A wonder strike against Southampton and a winner against Stoke displayed the old form and he would be looking to continue that in Europe. Special mention here of Shola Ameobi as well who seems to enjoy his outings in Europe scoring three goals in the competition.

Anzhi Makhachakala

Sameul Eto'o

He may not be the star he was at Barcelona but he definitely is the main man for this Russian outfit. He was excellent at home against Newcastle and he would look to continue his work away from home as well. For Anzhi to stand any chance of progressing Eto simply has to be on top his game. They rely heavily on him to be involved whether scoring or providing the goals. Without him, Anzhi do not look a threatening side albeit he is not their top goal scorer.

Borges Willian

Chief partner in attack for Eto'o, Willian is also a player who is likely to hurt Newcastle United. The Magpies do not have the best full-backs in this world and there is every chance of him picking up the ball and running at them. Traore with love Willian to have that kind of freedom and there is a definite chance that he would.

Traore

Highest goal-scorer for Anzhi. He needs to start, and start with his shooting boots on. If he gets into the game, it will be all over for the tyne-side club.

PREDICTION FOR THIS ONE IS A 2-1 HOME WIN FOR NEWCASTLE UNITED.