UCL Preview: Newcastle United host FC Barcelona in Round of 16 showdown
Newcastle United welcome FC Barcelona to St James’ Park for the second time this season in the UEFA Champions League, but this time with a place in the quarterfinals on the line as both sides clash in the first leg of the Round of 16.
The two teams previously met during the league phase of the competition where Barcelona edged the Magpies 2–1 on Tyneside, with a brace from Marcus Rashford sealing victory for the Spanish giants.
Newcastle finished outside the top eight in the league phase and were forced into the playoff round, where they overcame Qarabağ FK 9-3 on aggregate to secure their place in the last 16. Barcelona, meanwhile, finished 5th in the standings to book an automatic qualification spot.
Historically, the Catalan side have dominated this fixture. Barcelona have won four of the previous five meetings between the two clubs in the Champions League, including their last two visits to St James’ Park. Newcastle’s only victory over the Blaugrana came back in 1997, when they met for the first in the competition.
This encounter will mark the first knockout-stage meeting between the clubs, with all their previous clashes coming in either the group stage or league phase of the competition.
Newcastle head into the tie with some notable absentees. Midfielder Bruno Guimarães and defender Fabian Schär are both expected to miss out. However, manager Eddie Howe will rely on the attacking threat of Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Harvey Barnes, who could look to exploit Barcelona’s often aggressive high defensive line.
Barcelona also arrive with injury concerns. Key players such as Jules Koundé, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong and Alejandro Balde are sidelined. Despite that, the Spanish giants still boast significant attacking quality.
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, Brazilian winger Raphinha and midfield maestro Pedri are expected to play key roles, while the experience of Robert Lewandowski and João Cancelo could prove crucial in such a high-stakes European encounter.
With Newcastle seeking revenge for their earlier defeat and Barcelona aiming to continue their strong record against the English side, an intense and entertaining Champions League night is expected on Tyneside.