Newcastle United confirmed a UEFA Champions League round of 16 spot, a major moment in the club’s modern era. The Magpies beat Qarabag FK 3-2 in the second leg of their knockout play-off, and that sealed a 9-3 aggregate win after last week’s 6-1 rout in Baku.
With such a big cushion, Eddie Howe’s side played with freedom early on and hit Qarabag with two quick goals. Still, the visitors made the second half uncomfortable at times, scoring twice and keeping the match open longer than expected. Newcastle now wait for Friday’s draw, where Barcelona or Chelsea will be next.
Match recap: Fast start, busy second half – Watch the Highlights
Newcastle came out sharp, and the early pressure paid off almost right away.
- 4th minute, Newcastle 1-0 (agg 7-1): Sandro Tonali scored his first Champions League goal for the club. William Osula’s header forced a save from Mateusz Kochalski, and Tonali finished the rebound from close range.
- 6th minute, Newcastle 2-0 (agg 8-1): Joelinton made it two in a flash. Newcastle moved the ball quickly, and the Brazilian took his chance with a clean finish.
- 50th minute, Newcastle 2-1 (agg 8-2): Camilo Durán pulled one back with a smartly taken goal, and Qarabag finally found some rhythm.
- 52nd minute, Newcastle 3-1 (agg 9-2): Sven Botman answered straight away, heading in from a set piece to put Newcastle back in control.
- 57th minute, Newcastle 3-2 (agg 9-3): Qarabag struck again through Elvin Cafarquliyev (also listed as Jafarguliyev in some reports). Aaron Ramsdale saved Jankovic’s penalty, but Cafarquliyev reacted quickest and tucked in the rebound.
After that, Qarabag kept pushing, yet Newcastle managed the closing minutes well and saw out the win.
Newcastle United: Performance notes and key numbers
Newcastle controlled long spells and created plenty, although the edge dropped a little after the early burst. Joelinton brought drive in midfield, while Botman stayed a constant threat in the air.
Newcastle United match stats
| Statistic | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Final score | 3-2 | Tonali (4′), Joelinton (6′), Botman (52′) |
| Aggregate score | 9-3 | Newcastle advance to the last 16 |
| Possession | ~62% | Home side saw more of the ball |
| Shots (on target) | 18 (8) | Strong output, especially early |
| Key scorers | Tonali, Joelinton, Botman | Tonali’s first Champions League goal |
| Goalkeeper saves | Ramsdale (several) | Included a penalty save |
| Yellow cards | 2 | The game stayed under control |
Qarabag FK: Bright moments despite elimination
Qarabag never recovered from the first-leg damage, but the second half showed character and attacking intent. The two goals at St James’ Park gave the traveling fans something to enjoy, even with the tie decided.
Qarabag FK match stats
| Statistic | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Final score | 2-3 | Durán (50′), Cafarquliyev (57′) |
| Aggregate score | 3-9 | Qarabag eliminated |
| Possession | ~38% | Less of the ball, more counter play |
| Shots (on target) | 12 (5) | Better spell after halftime |
| Key scorers | Durán, Cafarquliyev | Second came after a saved penalty |
| Goalkeeper saves | Kochalski (several) | Save pushed to Tonali for the opener |
| Yellow cards | 3 | Frustration showed at times |
Eddie Howe’s reaction and what comes next
After the match, Howe praised the strong start and the way Newcastle finished the job, while also pointing out how open the game became after halftime. The manager also stressed the value of reaching the Champions League last 16, crediting the squad’s attitude and options.
For supporters, the win adds another marker in Newcastle’s recent rise. The next round brings a steep jump in difficulty, but the Magpies go into the draw with confidence and goals in them.
Qarabag head out of the competition, yet they leave with a second-leg showing that had real fight. Friday’s draw now takes center stage, and Newcastle’s Champions League run rolls on.
