
UEFA Champions League
8:00 p.mFebruary 24, 2026
Round of 32

Newcastle*3 – 2
VAT:(2-0)
Added:(9-3)

KarabakhSant Jaume Park
Referee: Davide Massa, Italy


Newcastle


Karabakh
Turn off the spoiler to see match stats
2.78
Expected Goals (xG)
1.30
Passing by
538 (89%)
Accurate passes
259 (80%)
Turn off the spoiler to see the events of the match

UEFA Champions League Ranking – UEFA Champions League
Qualification/Relegation
- Promotion – Champions League (Play Off: Round of 16)
- Promotion – Champions League (Play Off: Round of 16)
Newcastle United suffered a late scare but eventually secured a vital 3-2 win over Qarabag at St James’ Park, with Sandro Tonali’s early opener setting the tone for a thrilling UEFA Champions League clash.
The Magpies, with three wins in their last five outings, entered the Champions League last 16 as favourites. They faced an unpredictable Qarabag, who had shown resilience despite mixed recent form.
Newcastle came out of the blocks with an electric start. In the 4th minute, Sandro Tonali guided home a precision finish. He latched on to a pass from W. Osula, which sent the home crowd into raptures.
Just two minutes later, in the 6th minute, the lead was doubled. Joelinton powerfully hit the ball into the net after a superb assist from Harvey Barnes. This gave Newcastle a dream opening to equalise.
The first half saw Newcastle dominate the possession with 66%. They created numerous chances. Qarabag struggled to find their rhythm, facing a significant two-goal deficit at the break.
After the break, Qarabag came out with renewed determination. They knew an immediate response was vital. His efforts quickly paid off, injecting new tension into the match.
In the 51st minute, Camilo Duran pulled one back for Qarabag. Finished well after an assist from J. Montiel. The goal gave the visitors hope and calmed the St James’ Park faithful.
However, Newcastle’s response was swift. A few seconds later, in the 52nd minute, Sven Botman restored the two-goal advantage. Walked in from a Kieran Trippier delivery. The Newcastle manager made the first strategic substitutions, removing Trippier, Botman and Joelinton.
Qarabag refused to surrender. In the 57th minute, they won a penalty. M. Jankovic went forward, but his shot was blocked. From the immediate rebound, Elvin Cafarquliyev was alert and smashed the ball home for 3-2.
Newcastle controlled the ball with 66% possession, recording a total of 19 shots (8 on target). His expected goals (xG) stood at 2.78. Qarabag, with 34% possession, had 13 shots (6 on target) and an xG of 1.3.
This 3-2 win gives Newcastle a slim advantage heading into the crucial second leg. Qarabag’s late reaction ensures this Champions League tie remains wide open, promising another enthralling encounter.

