Newcastle United secured their place in the Champions League last 16 despite a spirited fightback from Qarabag in their second leg encounter at St James’ Park. The Premier League side advanced with a 9-3 aggregate victory, though the Azerbaijani champions demonstrated considerable resilience in the return fixture. Manager Eddie Howe made seven changes to his starting lineup, resting key players while maintaining control of the tie.
The match saw Newcastle race to an early two-goal lead through Sandro Tonali and Joelinton within the opening six minutes. However, Qarabag refused to capitulate, with Colombian forward Camilo Durán pulling one back for the visitors early in the second half. The see-saw nature of the contest continued as Sven Botman restored Newcastle’s two-goal cushion before Elvin Jafarguliyev converted a rebound from a penalty to make the final score 3-2.
Newcastle Manager Rotates Squad for Champions League Clash
Eddie Howe took advantage of the comfortable 6-1 first leg advantage to rotate his squad extensively. The Newcastle boss handed a first start to 21-year-old Irish defender Alex Murphy at left-back, while record signing Nick Woltemade featured in an attacking midfield role. According to Howe, the rotation was necessary given the healthy lead established in Baku the previous week.
Leading scorer Anthony Gordon was initially relegated to the bench as Howe prioritized freshness ahead of crucial Premier League fixtures. William Osula led the line but struggled to make an impact, while Woltemade showed flashes of quality in link-up play. The German striker, who cost Newcastle £69 million, continues to generate debate regarding his optimal position.
Qarabag Show Fighting Spirit Despite Aggregate Defeat
The Azerbaijani title holders arrived on Tyneside under challenging circumstances, landing at 11pm on Monday night and facing a six-hour return flight immediately after the final whistle. Additionally, the four-hour time difference added to the logistical difficulties faced by Gurban Gurbanov’s squad. Despite these obstacles, Qarabag demonstrated commendable spirit in the second leg.
Durán emerged as the standout performer for the visitors, showcasing the technical ability that has made him a key figure in Qarabag’s attack. The 24-year-old’s pace proved too much for Dan Burn before he finished with aplomb to beat Aaron Ramsdale. His performance likely attracted attention from Premier League scouts in attendance.
Defensive Lapses Concern Newcastle Despite Progression
While Newcastle comfortably advanced to face either Barcelona or Chelsea in the last 16, defensive vulnerabilities emerged as the match progressed. Howe acknowledged his team “came off the pedal” after establishing their early lead, allowing Qarabag to gain momentum. Ramsdale was forced into several impressive saves, including denying Jafarguliyev in the first half and making a flying stop to thwart Durán.
Dan Burn’s handball resulted in a penalty that Marko Jankovic struck powerfully, with Ramsdale producing a superb save before Jafarguliyev converted the rebound. However, the manager admitted the second half became “end to end” with Newcastle expending energy without creating sufficient goal threats. Over the two legs, Qarabag conceded nine goals but departed the Champions League having restored some pride.
Howe Emphasizes Team Unity Philosophy
The Newcastle manager’s current motivational approach centers on the concept of “One Brain,” designed to inspire synchronicity and collective mindset among his players. Meanwhile, this philosophy appeared effective during the opening stages when Newcastle’s coordinated pressing overwhelmed their opponents. In contrast, concentration wavered once the last-16 qualification was effectively secured.
Joelinton was withdrawn despite his early goal, with Howe mindful of the Brazilian midfielder’s precarious disciplinary position after an earlier booking. The decision reflected pragmatic management with domestic fixtures remaining the priority for a club chasing European qualification through the Premier League.
Newcastle will learn their last-16 opponents once the draw is conducted, with fixtures expected to take place in March. Authorities have not confirmed specific dates, though the club now faces a two-week wait before discovering whether Barcelona or Chelsea awaits them in the knockout stages.
