"A blockbuster night of Champions League action awaits at St James' Park on Thursday, where Newcastle United open their League Phase campaign against Spanish giants Barcelona. It's the first meeting between the sides in over two decades. Back in March 2003, goals from Patrick Kluivert and Thiago Motta sealed a 2-0 win for the Blaugrana in the second group stage clash of that particular campaign."
"Newcastle arrive with a boost after ending their three-match winless run in the Premier League thanks to new striker Nick Woltemade. The 6ft 6in German, signed for a club-record fee after Alexander Isak's late exit, marked his debut with a trademark header in a 1-0 win over Wolves. Eddie Howe praised his side afterwards, insisting he "didn't see much wrong" with their performance."
"This is Newcastle's second Champions League appearance in three seasons and their fourth overall. Last time out in 2023-24, they fell short in a tough group featuring PSG, Dortmund and AC Milan. The Magpies know another testing schedule awaits with Barcelona, PSG, Benfica, Marseille and Bayer Leverkusen among their League Phase opponents."
"The Tynesiders' recent European record reads just one win in eight (D3 L4), but at St James' Park they remain a formidable force - losing only three of their last 31 home matches in continental competition (W21 D7). Their record against Spanish clubs on home soil is also encouraging: four wins in six. Barcelona, meanwhile, are flying. Fresh from reclaiming the La Liga crown under Hansi Flick last season, they have begun their title defence strongly, thrashing Valencia 6-0 at the weekend. Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Fermin Lopez all bagged braces in what Flick called a "perfect" performance."
Newcastle United host Barcelona at St James' Park in the Champions League League Phase opener, meeting for the first time in over two decades. Newcastle ended a three-match Premier League winless run thanks to new striker Nick Woltemade, who scored on his debut. The club makes its second Champions League appearance in three seasons and faces a demanding group including Barcelona, PSG, Benfica, Marseille and Bayer Leverkusen. Newcastle's recent European record shows one win in eight, but their home form in continental competition and against Spanish visitors is strong. Barcelona arrive in excellent form after a 6-0 win over Valencia.
Read at 101GREATGOALS.COM
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