Eddie Howe stated that Newcastle possesses the capability to leave a significant mark in the Champions League elimination rounds, following the Magpies’ successful attainment of a spot in the round of sixteen.
The Magpies solidified their position as one of six Premier League teams for Friday’s draw, where they will ascertain if Barcelona or Chelsea will be their opponent next month, after a 3-2 triumph in the return fixture at St. James’ Park, which concluded a 9-3 overall dismantling of Azerbaijani champions Qarabağ.
Howe, however, was not content with merely relishing the achievement. He declared: “Our aim is to advance as deeply as possible, and why shouldn’t it be? I believe we possess the competence to achieve it.”
He continued: “That is the excellent aspect of our current season. An optimistic sentiment prevails that regardless of our opponent in the subsequent stage, it will present a remarkable encounter for us.”
“I am confident that we can elevate our performance and contend against any adversary,” Howe asserted. “That is precisely what we will be required to do, irrespective of our draw. However, I consider it a crucial factor for us to provide our season with an added impetus by progressing through this elimination stage and then into the subsequent phase.”
“Such is the mentality we must cultivate. We need to have faith in our abilities. I believe our peak performances this year have been evident in knockout matches and single fixture contests, where we have truly managed to meet any test presented to us.”
This marks Newcastle’s inaugural instance of advancing to the round of sixteen in their four participations in the tournament, signifying a notable achievement in the club’s continental campaign.
Following last week’s 6-1 thrashing in Baku, the result was largely predetermined. Any residual hope Qarabağ harbored was dispelled within six minutes as Sandro Tonali and Joelinton scored rapidly one after another.
The away team displayed significantly greater resilience than they had in Azerbaijan, with Camilo Duran and Elvin Jafarguliyev both scoring goals following halftime. Nevertheless, Sven Botman’s header, sandwiched between these scores, guaranteed a sufficiently tranquil evening for the hosts.
Howe commented: “Reaching the round of sixteen is a monumental accomplishment for us. I am unconcerned with who our opponent may be at this juncture; it will undoubtedly be a challenging pairing, and we completed the bulk of the effort during the road fixture.”
“However, we have progressed admirably, both then and today. We managed to alternate personnel to an extent, experiencing varied outcomes. While I don’t believe it was a stellar display, I am genuinely content with our victory.”
Qarabağ’s manager, Gurban Gurbanov, expressed satisfaction with his team’s enhanced showing, stating: “I wish to extend my gratitude to my players for their extended participation in the Champions League. Briefly, I must convey that I am immensely pleased with their match, as their performance was commendable.”