Overview
- Kick-off is 8pm Tuesday at St James' Park, with UK coverage on TNT Sports' Prime Video channel.
- Polish referee Szymon Marciniak takes charge despite Tyneside anger over his role in a 2023 PSG–Newcastle penalty that UEFA later said was wrongly awarded.
- Tonali missed open training through illness and faces a late fitness call, with Howe stressing his importance to Newcastle's midfield.
- Benfica arrive seeking their first group-stage points after defeats to Qarabag and Chelsea, training in Seixal on Monday before traveling to Newcastle.
- Jose Mourinho praised Newcastle and Sir Bobby Robson's legacy, said he has never been contacted about managing the club, and warned his Benfica side expect a formidable atmosphere.