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Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe remains optimistic about his team’s chances of reaching the Champions League quarter-finals, despite a heartbreaking 1-1 draw in the first leg of their last-16 tie against Barcelona.
The Magpies appeared set for a historic victory after Harvey Barnes scored in the 86th minute, but a last-second penalty converted by Lamine Yamal levelled the score.
Despite the late setback, Howe praised his side’s “outstanding” intensity and labelled the match one of their strongest performances of the season.
The display was a significant turnaround for Newcastle, who are currently 12th in the Premier League and were recently eliminated from the FA Cup.
Howe noted that his squad’s ability to dominate large portions of the game against the La Liga leaders proves they have the capability to cause an upset in the return leg.
He emphasised that the team still carries a strong sense of belief heading into the Camp Nou, despite the frustration of the final result.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick admitted his side struggled at St James’ Park, citing numerous unforced errors and a lack of control on the ball.
Dealing with several key absences, including Frenkie de Jong and Jules Kounde, Flick confessed he was satisfied to leave with a draw given the circumstances.
The two clubs are scheduled to meet again on March 18 to decide who will progress to the final eight of the competition.
