Newcastle United Secure Champions League Play-Off with Draw Against PSG

Newcastle United secured a 1-1 draw against Paris Saint-Germain in a UEFA Champions League match at the Parc des Princes. Joe Willock scored Newcastle's equalizer in first-half stoppage time, canceling out Vitinha's opening goal for Paris Saint-Germain.

This result ensured Newcastle a play-off berth, though they finished the league phase in 12th position, two points shy of automatic qualification for the last 16.

Early Drama and PSG's Opener

Paris Saint-Germain took the lead early in the match. An incident in the opening minute saw Lewis Miley penalized for handball after a VAR review. Nick Pope then saved Ousmane Dembélé's subsequent penalty kick. Five minutes later, Vitinha scored the opening goal from 20 yards.

Willock's Stoppage-Time Equalizer

Newcastle's equalizer came in first-half stoppage time when Joe Willock headed the ball into the corner after a flick-on from Dan Burn, following a long free kick from Sandro Tonali.

Second-Half Opportunities for Both Sides

The second half saw both teams create chances. Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes made attempts for Newcastle, and Jacob Ramsey tested Matvey Safonov. Willock had a goal disallowed for offside. Paris Saint-Germain also had opportunities, with Warren Zaïre-Emery, Bradley Barcola, and Ousmane Dembélé shooting wide or over the bar. Vitinha also had a powerful shot go just over.

Late Pressure and Play-Off Confirmation

Newcastle continued to push for a winning goal in the final quarter, with Gordon and Barnes combining for several efforts. A penalty claim for a foul on Gordon by Marquinhos was not awarded by referee Slavko Vincic. Despite late pressure, Newcastle had to settle for a point. Their Champions League journey continues with a two-legged play-off next month.

Howe's Team Changes

Head coach Eddie Howe made five changes to his side for the match, including Willock, Anthony Elanga, Nick Woltemade, Jacob Ramsey, and Dan Burn in the starting lineup.