USG stadium move and early kick-off time explained ahead of Newcastle Champions League clash

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Newcastle United play Union Saint-Gilloise in Brussels on Wednesday afternoon. 

As far as Champions League fixtures go, Union Saint-Gilloise vs Newcastle United is at the slightly low-key kick-off time of 5.45pm BST.  

Indeed, it evokes memories of Newcastle United’s long-awaited return to the elite stage of European competition, when they played AC Milan at San Siro at a similar time back in 2023. 

This time, however, Newcastle will be expected to win. That’s not to downplay USG of course, but the difference in resource cannot be ignored.

It’s a huge game for both clubs, so big that it cannot even be held at USG’s home ground, the Joseph Marien Stadium.

Here’s all you need to know.  

• READ MORE: Everything Newcastle United fans need to know about Union Saint-Gilloise ahead of Champions League meeting

Why USG vs Newcastle United is being played at Anderlecht’s stadium

Back in 2022, Belgian giants Anderlecht confirmed that they had reached an agreement for USG to play their games at their stadium.

USG’s home ground does not meet the requirements set by UEFA for Champions League competition. It holds only 9,400 fans, so cannot be used in this tournament. 

The RSC Anderlecht Stadium (Lotto Park) is 21,500-seater venue located in the Anderlecht district of Brussels. 

A statement posted on Anderlecht’s official website read: “Royal Sporting Club Anderlecht accepted the request of Union and the RBFA for the match to take place exceptionally at the Lotto Park. All parties are in agreement that the Belgian clubs competing on the European stage deserve to defend their chances in optimal conditions.” 

Newcastle have played eight matches against Belgian teams in their history, winning six of them, losing one and drawing the other.

Their most recent clash against a Belgian team saw them draw 2-2 away at Club Brugge in the Europa League group stages back in 2012. 

Champions League early kick-off time explained

USG vs Newcastle United isn’t the only game taking place at 5.45pm BST on Wednesday. Qarabag host Copenhagen at the same time.

The 5.45pm BST slot was introduced by UEFA back in 2021. Indeed, staggering kick-off times throughout the day was designed to allow viewers to watch more games, creating added revenue for broadcasters and clubs alike.

This is Newcastle’s only early game of their Champions League campaign. Their home games will all be played at 8pm UK time too, making life easier for supporters.