Newcastle United and Eddie Howe suffered grief as they exited Europe in agony on Wednesday.
Newcastle United fans knew they were in for a tough ride in their Group F decider against AC Milan, last season’s Champions League semi-finalist. Joelinton’s bullet strike opened the score after 33 minutes, sending the St James’ Park crowd into a frenzy.
According to CBS Sports on Paramount+ (13/12/23 at 10:10 p.m.), both Thierry Henry and Micah Richards were wowed by the Brazil star and his ‘absolutely spectacular’ efforts.
The Toon Army faithful were dreaming at the time because they were on their way to the knockout stages of the Champions League.
However, with Newcastle being novices to the Champions League after a two-decade hiatus, AC Milan’s expertise and know-how prevailed, much to the chagrin of the home supporters.
Newcastle United v AC Milan
“Look how aggressive they are and how many numbers they put forward,” Richards said of Joelinton’s target.
“Just take a look at Miley, a 17-year-old. However, this finish is just stunning. Take a look at that. “Please have some of that!”
“It’s fantastic,” Henry said. I don’t believe he intends to lift it. He’s attempting to cushion it and set it down.
“What he does exceptionally well is react. He got right into it, and what a strike.”
No Europe post-Christmas for Newcastle
Apart from the disappointment of losing the League Cup final to Manchester United, Newcastle fans will feel the deepest sting from this recent defeat and their exit from European competition – Paul Merson expressed disbelief at Eddie Howe’s post-UCL exit comments.
Even if the team had managed to secure a spot in the Europa League, it would have been highly appreciated by the fans.
However, Howe should focus on the positives, such as the reduced fixture congestion in the latter half of the season without playing twice a week. This change increases their odds of clinching a spot in the Champions League next season, considering their current position, which is somewhat precarious.
While both Tottenham and Aston Villa trailed Newcastle in the previous season, this time around, they present a significant challenge for the Magpies.
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