Newcastle United’s European journey came to an end after a dramatic night at St. James’ Park. The team experienced a rollercoaster of emotions as they faced AC Milan in a crucial match. Substitute Samuel Chukwueze became the hero for Milan, scoring with his first touch and securing their spot in the Europa League, while simultaneously dashing Newcastle’s hopes.
The realization that there would be no more midweek European adventures this season hit hard for Eddie Howe’s exhausted players and their disappointed fans. Despite a strong start and taking the lead through Joelinton, Newcastle’s dreams of reaching the last 16 of the Champions League were shattered when Paris Saint-Germain secured the necessary result against Dortmund.
A draw would have been sufficient for Newcastle to qualify for the Europa League. However, Christian Pulisic’s equalizer for Milan disrupted Newcastle’s intense high press, and fatigue began to take its toll. Rafael Leão and his teammates sensed an opportunity, with Leão missing a golden chance to secure victory. But Milan’s manager, Stefano Pioli, made inspired substitutions, and it was the trio of Luka Jovic, Noah Okafor, and Chukwueze who combined to create the winning goal, leaving Newcastle deflated.
Before the match, the focus was on the potential return of Newcastle’s third-choice goalkeeper, Loris Karius, who famously struggled in the 2018 Champions League final for Liverpool. However, Martin Dubravka passed a late fitness test, relegating Karius to the substitutes’ bench, which showcased Newcastle’s injury crisis. Despite the setbacks, Howe urged his team to give their all, and they responded by pressuring Milan, forcing them into defensive difficulties.
Although Milan’s defense was weakened, Newcastle’s initial attacking fervor didn’t yield the desired results. Mike Maignan, Milan’s goalkeeper, was not tested as much as Howe had hoped, and Dubravka remained largely untroubled by Olivier Giroud and the Milan attackers.
Newcastle’s performance on the night was a far cry from their recent struggles against Everton and Tottenham, with Milan struggling to cope with their intensity and failing to establish a rhythm. Despite the commendable efforts of young academy graduate Lewis Miley, who played a crucial role in setting up Joelinton’s goal, Newcastle’s overall performance fell short.
Ultimately, Newcastle’s European dream came to an end, leaving them to reflect on what could have been. Meanwhile, Milan celebrated their qualification for the Europa League, courtesy of Chukwueze’s decisive contribution.
