Newcastle drew 1-1 with Barcelona in the first leg of the Champions League at St James’ Park.
Eddie Howe’s side Newcastle had the opening chances of the game, as both Sandro Tonali’s and Antony Elanga’s tame efforts were easily saved by Joan Garcia. Barcelona almost took the lead when Dan Burn deflected Fermin Lopez’s cross just inches off the outside post. Elanga then sent a cross into the box, and Osula just missed it at the far post.
After the halftime break, Newcastle increased the pressure as Osula fired high off the post from Lewis Hall’s cross. Robert Lewandowski then had the best chance for Barcelona, but he put Raphinha’s cross just wide of the post. Super substitute Jacob Murphy proved to be decisive as his cross was met perfectly by Harvey Barnes, who pushed the cross past Garcia to give Newcastle the lead in the 86th minute. More drama was witnessed when Dani Olmo was brought down in the box in the final minutes of the game. Lamine Yamal stepped up to rescue a draw for Barcelona going into the return leg.
Speaking after the game, Hansi Flick insisted they will do better in the second leg. You’ll see a different match at the Spotify Camp Nou. The result is the best news today. We weren’t at our best but took advantage of the opportunity we had. It’s not easy to play on this pitch. ” he said.
