Perfect — I’ll expand all four matches into full 700–900 word blog posts each with strong headlines, detailed match flow, tactical insight, and player performances.

Here we go 👇

Newcastle United Cruise Past Qarabag to Secure Champions League Last-16 Spot

Newcastle United confirmed their place in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 with a confident 3–2 victory over Qarabag FK at St. James’ Park, sealing an emphatic 9–3 aggregate win across both legs. Eddie Howe’s side entered the second leg with a commanding advantage after their 6–1 demolition in Azerbaijan, but they still delivered a professional and entertaining performance in front of their home supporters.

The match began at a blistering pace, with Newcastle asserting control almost immediately. Just five minutes into the contest, Sandro Tonali broke the deadlock with a composed finish after a fluid attacking move sliced through Qarabag’s defensive structure. The early goal set the tone, and within moments the Magpies doubled their lead. Joelinton powered home Newcastle’s second goal in the sixth minute, capitalizing on defensive confusion to give the hosts a dream start.

With the aggregate tie effectively decided, Newcastle played with confidence and freedom, dominating possession and dictating the tempo. Qarabag struggled to contain Newcastle’s midfield energy, particularly the physical presence of Joelinton and the composure of Tonali in central areas.

However, the visitors showed commendable resilience after halftime. Camilo Duran pulled one back in the 51st minute following a quick attacking transition that caught Newcastle momentarily exposed. Any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished, though, as Sven Botman restored Newcastle’s two-goal cushion shortly afterward, finishing clinically from close range after a set-piece delivery caused chaos in the penalty area.

Qarabag refused to surrender and reduced the deficit again through Elvin Jafarguliyev in the 58th minute, ensuring the remainder of the match remained competitive. Despite late pressure from the Azerbaijani champions, Newcastle maintained control and managed the game effectively to secure victory on the night.

The result represents a historic milestone for Newcastle, who are now through to the Champions League knockout stages for the first time in over 20 years. Howe’s tactical organization, combined with aggressive pressing and attacking fluidity, has transformed the club into a serious European competitor.

Beyond qualification, the performances across both legs demonstrated Newcastle’s growing maturity. Their attacking depth, defensive structure, and midfield intensity suggest they could pose problems for more established European giants in the next round.

With momentum building and confidence high, Newcastle fans will now eagerly await the Round of 16 draw, dreaming of how far this exciting European journey could go.