"Since then they have lost just once in the competition, a 2-1 reverse at Marseille, and have won all four of their subsequent Champions League fixtures at St James' Park. A 3-1 defeat in the FA Cup fifth round by Manchester City, in which they were thorougly outplayed by Pep Guardiola's side after taking the lead through a Harvey Barnes strike, has left the Champions League as Newcastle's only chance of silverware."
"Hansi Flick's men have scored 11 goals in their last four games. Barca prevailed in all of them, though a 3-0 win over Atletico Madrid was not enough to secure progression from the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey. Barca's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal missed the league phase game with Newcastle due to a groin injury, but he heads into this fixture in fine form."
"Yamal's goal was his 19th this season, meaning he has already surpassed his tally of 18 from the previous campaign, which saw the Blaugrana win a LaLiga and Copa del Rey double and reach the semi-finals of the Champions League. It will likely require a mammoth effort from Newcastle to keep Barcelona's plethora of attacking talents at bay, though Newcastle will be confident in their own abilities going forward."
Newcastle United host Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, seeking an upset against the Spanish giants. The Magpies have performed well domestically in Europe, winning all four home Champions League fixtures since their opening defeat to Barcelona. However, their season's trophy ambitions narrowed after losing to Manchester City in the FA Cup fifth round. Barcelona arrive in exceptional form, scoring 11 goals in their last four matches, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal in outstanding form after netting 19 goals this season. Newcastle possess attacking prowess themselves, having scored 26 goals this season, but face a significant challenge containing Barcelona's attacking talent.
Read at 101GREATGOALS.COM
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