🔥 First Leg: Qarabağ FK 1–6 Newcastle (18 Feb 2026)
The tie was effectively settled in the opening match in Baku, where Newcastle delivered a ruthless attacking display to leave Qarabağ with a mountain to climb. Newcastle raced into a commanding lead, with forward Anthony Gordon absolutely sensational — scoring four goals in the first half alone, including from the penalty spot and open play, and piling pressure on the Azerbaijani hosts from the third minute onwards.
Gordon’s first-half blitz set the tone early, putting Newcastle firmly in control. Malick Thiaw and Jacob Murphy also got on the scoresheet, rounding off an emphatic win. Qarabağ’s solitary goal — a consolation — came too late to alter the course of the match.
This performance not only gave Newcastle a huge lead but saw Gordon climb up the Champions League top scorer charts and even break club records for European goals.
🏟️ Second Leg: Newcastle 3–2 Qarabağ FK (24 Feb 2026)
Back at St James’ Park, the Magpies managed the return fixture much more conservatively, aware their massive first-leg advantage (6–1) meant qualification was all but wrapped up. Nevertheless, the match still produced drama.
Newcastle struck early with quick goals from Sandro Tonali and Joelinton within the opening five minutes, setting a positive tone for the home side. Qarabağ responded with goals from Camilo Durán and Elvin Cafarquliyev, making it a pulsating night for fans. Sven Botman restored Newcastle’s lead with his first Champions League goal, settling the scoreline at 3–2 on the night.
Despite the closer score, Newcastle progressed comfortably 9–3 on aggregate — a milestone achievement as it marked their first-ever progression to the Champions League Round of 16.
📈 Key Takeaways
🏆 Newcastle’s Performance
- Clinical in attack: Especially in the first leg, Newcastle showed elite-level finishing and offensive ruthlessness.
- Gordon in sensational form: His four-goal haul was the catalyst for the huge first-leg lead and a standout individual performance in Europe.
- Home management: In the second leg, once the tie was secure, Newcastle held their nerve to ensure they didn’t concede momentum.
💪 Qarabağ’s Effort
- Fighting spirit: Despite conceding heavily in the first leg, Qarabağ didn’t roll over and showcased resilience in the return match with two goals.
- Experience gained: Competing against a top English club in a two-legged European tie will be invaluable for their future campaigns.
⚽ What’s Next?
With this tie concluded, Newcastle United now await their Round of 16 opponents — with potential matchups against heavyweights like Chelsea or Barcelona in the next round — setting the stage for some thrilling Champions League nights ahead.
