Tue Feb 24 22:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Newcastle United Dominates Qarabag to Secure Champions League Last 16 Berth

The Story:

Newcastle United secured their place in the Champions League last 16 for the first time after a comprehensive 9-3 aggregate victory over Qarabag. The second leg, played at St James’ Park on February 24, 2026, ended in a 3-2 win for the Magpies, following their dominant 6-1 victory in Baku. Quickfire goals from Sandro Tonali and Joelinton in the opening minutes set the tone for Newcastle, although Qarabag managed to pull back two goals in the second half. The victory means Newcastle will join five other Premier League teams in the next round.

Key Points:

  • Newcastle defeated Qarabag 3-2 in the second leg of their Champions League playoff tie, winning 9-3 on aggregate.
  • Sandro Tonali and Joelinton scored early goals for Newcastle within the first six minutes.
  • Camilo Durán and Elvin Jafarguliyev scored for Qarabag, sandwiching a goal from Sven Botman.
  • Alex Murphy, a 21-year-old defender, made his first senior start for Newcastle.
  • Newcastle joins Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham in the Champions League last 16, bringing the total number of Premier League teams to six.

Key Takeaways:

  • Eddie Howe has successfully guided Newcastle to the Champions League knockout stages, fulfilling the club’s primary objective for the campaign.
  • Newcastle’s strong performance, particularly in the first leg, highlights their growing strength on the European stage.
  • The Premier League’s dominance in the Champions League is further cemented by having six teams in the last 16.

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