Newcastle United is preparing to face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League, with a crucial match scheduled for 8 PM GMT. A victory in this game would secure the team’s automatic qualification to the last 16, allowing them to bypass the two-legged playoff tie next month.
Injury Updates: Guimarães and Joelinton
Before the match, head coach Eddie Howe provided updates on the injury statuses of key players Bruno Guimarães and Joelinton. The team experienced a delay in their flight from Newcastle International Airport due to severe weather, but Howe still managed to inform the media about the players’ conditions.
- Joelinton: The Newcastle captain missed the recent 2-0 defeat against Aston Villa. He has traveled with the squad but will not play against PSG. Howe stated, “Joe won’t make the game. He has had a scan, and while it isn’t a severe injury, he will be out for a few weeks.”
- Bruno Guimarães: The Brazilian midfielder is with the team, and a further assessment regarding his fitness will be made in the coming hours.
Reflections on Previous Encounters
Howe recalled the team’s last visit to the Parc des Princes, which ended in a controversial 1-1 draw in November 2023. He expressed pride in the team’s performance and the experience they gained from that match.
Champions League Momentum
Newcastle enters this match with momentum, having secured a 3-0 victory against PSV Eindhoven in their previous Champions League fixture. Howe emphasized the importance of enjoying every moment in this prestigious tournament. He remarked, “We want to enjoy it and experience the highs and lows it brings. We are all determined to perform at our best.”
Away Form Challenges
Addressing the team’s away form, Howe acknowledged the challenges that come with high-stakes matches. He stated, “The bigger the game, the more we must rise to the challenge. This match will be an opportunity to address concerns about our resilience and effectiveness on the road.”
As Newcastle approaches this critical clash against Paris Saint-Germain, the team is focused on overcoming injuries and leveraging their experiences to secure a place in the next round of the Champions League.
