Newcastle’s European run came to a disappointing end with a 2-1 defeat to AC Milan. Despite this victory, the Magpies failed to qualify for the next phase, as the 1-1 draw between Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund saw the French champions finish second in Group F.
This elimination is all the more frustrating for Newcastle, who have experienced a series of injuries and faced numerous fatigues. Eddie Howe has been forced to play the same ten outfield players in the last five games due to a lack of options. However, the return of Callum Wilson allowed Howe to make just one change, replacing Alexander Isak.
For their part, AC Milan have also suffered an injury crisis, forcing Theo Hernandez to play as a central defender. Fikayo Tomori was the only central defender available to Stefano Pioli and he saved his team by making a spectacular tackle on his own line to prevent Miguel Almiron from scoring.
Despite pressure from Newcastle, it was the Magpies who opened the scoring with a superb shot from Joelinton, following a magnificent pass from Anthony Gordon. The atmosphere was electric at the start of the second half when news of Borussia Dortmund’s opener against PSG reached the home fans.
However, two goals in a matter of minutes changed the game in this exciting Group F. PSG equalized in Germany, while AC Milan also scored to get back level. Despite the opportunities on both sides, it was Milan who were more effective with a sublime strike from Christian Pulisic, following a pass from Giroud.
The match intensified in the final minutes, but Newcastle and Milan both failed to take the lead. Finally, it was Samuel Chukwueze who sealed the victory for the Italians with a superb shot six minutes from time.
Although Milan didn’t put up an impressive performance throughout the group stage, they at least secured a place in the Europa League, which is a consolation for them.
For Newcastle, this first Champions League campaign in 20 years ended on a bitter note. They will now have to focus on their performances in the league and hope to come back stronger next season.
Find out more: [Link to an article on PSG’s qualification for the Champions League]
[Link to an article on Fikayo Tomori’s performance during the AC Milan vs Newcastle match]
[Link to article on Newcastle’s future prospects following their elimination from the Champions League]