The first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie between Barcelona and Newcastle had ended in a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park. The second leg was held at Camp Nou in Barcelona last night. The incredible stadium produced another incredible game of football as the Catalans showcased their footballing prowess.
With four goals in 30 minutes, the match began at a frenzied pace. Two goals from Barcelona and two from the feet of Elanga for Newcastle set up the match beautifully. Barca went ahead 3-2 at the stroke of half time. But then what followed was a lesson from Barcelona.
Hansi Flick, Barca’s manager looked on grimly. He was not pleased with his side conceding two goals and no wonder his pep talk at the break just changed the course of the game.
The Catalans scored 4 sublime goals in the second half with a brace from Lewandowski. Raphina too got a double in the milee, as Barcelona whipped the Magpies 7-2 to win the tie 8-3 on aggregate and comfortably sailed into the quarter finals.
I am not a great fan of Lamine Yamal’s off field antics, but on the field Yamal is a pure gem. His skills with the ball are truly exceptional. The balance in his stride, the ability to shake off his marker and the purity of talent in supplying incredible passes, makes the young Spaniard, arguably the best midfielder in football today. And of course he can score too. He is such an asset to Barcelona.
Yamal, Bernal and Lopez got on the score sheet last night which must have given Hansi Flick a lot of joy.
Newcastle were not bad in the first half, but their defence just disintegrated in the second half as Barcelona went for the kill. The pace and energy and creativity in Barcelona’s midfield coupled with fantastic finishing, was just too good for Newcastle United. They were simply outclassed by a much superior opposition.
Barcelona will take on their age-old Spanish rivals Atletico Madrid in the quarters. The Madridians got past Tottenham Hotspur to make it to the quarter finals.
The Catalans are looking good and will be tough to beat.
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