I asked AI to predict Newcastle United v Brighton in the FA Cup - and here's the results

Like it or loathe it, we live a world where AI - or artificial intelligence - is creeping into every corner of society.

Long gone are the days of predictive text or autocorrect being your only daily dalliance with an industry that was formerly resigned to the big screen or fiction.

Now, it’s in everything, and can do virtually everything, too - including, it seems, predict football results.

So, we asked X’s own AI, Grok, to get its crystal ball out and predict what would happen as Newcastle United take on Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup fifth round at St James’ Park. And here’s what it said.

The context

When the draw was made, this looked like a bit of an easier tie than it does now, but if you want to compete, as Newcastle know, you’ve got to beat all comers. And Brighton, on a three win streak in the Premier League, will not be easy, especially as they know how to win at St James’ Park, having done so earlier this season.

And Grok reflects that. When assessing the tie, it says: “The Magpies have had an inconsistent run lately, with three wins and three losses in their last six matches across all competitions. Their most recent Premier League outing was a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities (conceding in five of their last six games) and potential attacking struggles if key striker Alexander Isak remains sidelined with a groin injury. However, Newcastle have a strong home record in the FA Cup, progressing from their last nine fifth-round ties, and are motivated by their EFL Cup final appearance against Liverpool later in March. Eddie Howe’s side thrives on dynamic, high-energy play at home, where they’ve been unbeaten in their last 11 Premier League games at St James’ Park.”

On Brighton, it adds: “The Seagulls are in excellent form, unbeaten in their last four matches across all competitions, including a 2-1 midweek win over Bournemouth. Their attacking prowess is evident, having scored in every game during this streak, with players like Georginio Rutter (four goals, two assists in his last three FA Cup games) and Danny Welbeck (recent match-winner) in fine form. Brighton’s away record is robust, with only four losses in 14 Premier League away games this season, and they’ve already beaten Newcastle 1-0 at St James’ Park in the league this term.

“Historically, the last five competitive meetings between these teams have been closely contested, with each side winning two and one draw. However, Brighton have dominated recent FA Cup encounters, winning their last four against Newcastle without conceding a goal, though the most recent was in 2012-13. This suggests Brighton have a psychological edge in this competition against the Magpies.”

It factors in how injuries may play a part. It says: “Newcastle face uncertainty with Alexander Isak, Joelinton (knee), and Sven Botman (knee), though Howe has suggested the latter two might return. Long-term absentee Jamaal Lascelles is ruled out. Brighton’s injury list is longer, missing Lewis Dunk (ribs), Joel Veltman (ankle), Igor Julio (knee), James Milner (thigh), Ferdi Kadioglu (toe), and Jason Steele (shoulder), with Carl Rushworth cup-tied. These absences could strain Brighton’s defensive depth.”

Prediction: Newcastle United ?? Brighton and Hove Albion ??

Grok is sure this one will be tight, but it does think Newcastle see this one out in the 90 minutes.

It predicts: “This match is likely to be tight and competitive, reflecting their balanced recent encounters and current league standings (Newcastle sixth, Brighton eighth in the Premier League). Newcastle’s home advantage and FA Cup fifth-round pedigree (unbeaten since 1992-93) give them a slight edge, but Brighton’s form, confidence from their earlier win at St James’ Park, and historical FA Cup success against Newcastle make them dangerous underdogs.

“Scoreline Prediction: Newcastle United 2-1 Brighton & Hove Albion (after 90 minutes). Newcastle’s desperation to maintain their cup momentum and capitalize on home support could see them edge it, possibly through a late goal from Callum Wilson or Anthony Gordon.”

In other news, ‘Vultures are coming’ - Newcastle United given transfer warning over Alexander Isak.