Newcastle vs Qarabag FK: Key Match Details
As the Newcastle vs Qarabag FK showdown approaches, fans are buzzing with excitement. The match will be held at St. James Park on Tuesday evening, where Newcastle hosts Qarabag FK following a dominant 6-1 victory in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League knockout stage.
When and Where to Watch the Match
The highly anticipated match kicks off on Tuesday, February 24 at 8:00 p.m. GMT (3 p.m. ET; 1:30 a.m. IST and 7:00 p.m. AEDT, Wednesday). It will be broadcast on TNT Sports and Amazon Prime in the UK, as well as Paramount+ in the U.S., SonyLIV in India, and Stan Sport in Australia.
Team News: Who’s In and Who’s Out
Newcastle United faces several injury challenges. The following players are confirmed to be out:
- Emil Krafth (Knee) – OUT
- Fabian Schär (Ankle) – OUT
- Tino Livramento (Hamstring) – OUT
- Bruno Guimarães (Muscle) – OUT
- Lewis Miley (Knee) – OUT
- Yoane Wissa (Knock) – OUT
- Sven Botman (Back) – DOUBT
Meanwhile, Qarabag’s goalkeeper Shahrudin Mahammadaliyev is also in doubt for the match.
Star Performers and Expectations
One player to keep an eye on is Anthony Gordon. Despite the potential absence of several players, Gordon has set remarkable records in this Champions League season. He recorded the fastest goal in Newcastle’s UCL history at just 2 minutes, 2 seconds, and has accumulated 10 goals, the second most by an Englishman in a single UCL season.
This match presents an opportunity for Newcastle’s coach, Eddie Howe, to experiment with the lineup given their substantial lead from the first leg. Howe may look to rest key players while giving young prospects like William Osula and Sean Neave a chance to shine.
What This Match Means for Qarabag
For Qarabag FK, this match is about more than just the scoreline. This Azerbaijani club has made history by securing a spot in the knockout stage of the UEFA Champions League. Their journey, having bested renowned clubs like Napoli and Benfica in the group stages, deserves recognition regardless of the outcome.
Looking Ahead: Impact and Analysis
Newcastle can afford to rotate their squad without jeopardizing their chances in the tournament. This flexibility allows Howe to find better combinations, particularly in light of Guimarães’ absence, a pivotal player for the team. Newcastle’s focus will likely shift to ensuring peak performance while testing their squad depth as they advance.
On the other hand, Qarabag’s resilience under pressure will be tested against a formidable opponent. Their participation alone in this knockout round is a monumental achievement, highlighting their growth in European football.
Final Thoughts
This UEFA Champions League tie between Newcastle and Qarabag FK represents excitement not just for the teams involved but also for their respective fanbases. Despite the difficult odds stacked against Qarabag, their historical presence in this round is noteworthy, setting up an intriguing match to watch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Newcastle vs Qarabag match kick off?
The match kicks off at 8:00 p.m. GMT on February 24.
Where can I watch the match live?
You can watch the match on TNT Sports and Amazon Prime in the UK, and on Paramount+ in the U.S.
Who are the key players to watch?
Anthony Gordon is a significant player for Newcastle, with a record-breaking performance in the Champions League this season.
Is there any team missing key players?
Yes, Newcastle is missing several players due to injuries, including Bruno Guimarães and Emil Krafth.
What does this match mean for Qarabag FK?
This match represents a historic occasion as it’s their first appearance in a Champions League knockout round, showcasing their growth as a club.
