Newcastle's starting XI vs Barceloan
Newcastle United were dealt a gut-wrenching late blow to deny them a slender lead going into the second leg of their clash with Barca at the Nou Camp.
[The first half resulted in William Osula being presented with two good chances, but he could not find](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-vs-barcelona-live-33565152) a clinical touch when it mattered. Anthony Elanga also drilled two efforts straight at Joan Garcia although Barca edged possession by 56%.
Chances and openings continued to come and go but Newcastle were just lacking composure in the final third after breaking free in a frequent basis.
The two teams got past the hour mark with the scores level but Newcaste had not really tested Garcia enough. Howe opted to make big changes on 67 minutes when taking off Anthony Elanga, William Osula and Kieran Trippier.
After prodding and probing Barca in the final stages, the breakthrough came when Jacob Murphy played a fine ball into the box and Barnes applied the finish to raise the roof.
But Dani Olmo was then upended by Malick Thiaw in the last moment of the game and Lamine Yamal stepped up to roll it in the bottom corner to earn the visitors a draw.
Here's how the Magpies fared against Barca:
**Aaron Ramsdale 7**
Was always under pressure but coped fantastically well.
**Kieran Trippier 7**
His guile was much needed as he passed the ball well and used it intelligently. Ran out of gas before being replaced by Livramento.
**Malick Thiaw 8**
Composed and cool against a stellar frontline. A late blow as he conceded a penalty at the death.
**Dan Burn 8**
Does not always get the credit he deserves but other than a first half scare was pretty steady.
**Lewis Hall 10**
The best Newcastle player on the park. Technically brilliant and ridiculously composed. Dealt with the world's best young player competently all night.
**Joelinton 8**
Strong and physical but also managed his own aggression well.
**Sandro Tonali 9**
Looked after the ball magnificently as he also walked the disciplinary tightrope after a questionable yellow card. An asset Newcastle must guard with their life. Slotted the ball down the throat of Barca for the goal.
**Jacob Ramsey 8**
Continued to offer some presence. Brought energy to the table.
**Harvey Barnes 8**
Has scored some huge goals for Newcastle, but none as big as this one.
**Anthony Elanga 5**
Worked hard and got in good positions, but too often his final ball or final shot was off the boil. Howe replaced him with 23 minutes left after 30 touches and very few accurate crosses.
**William Osula 5**
Misfired, unfortunately, but was spotted questioning the level of service at times. Two good openings in the first half and one half chance lashed high and wide after the break before his number came up. Just 19 touches and no shots on target.
**Subs**
Tino Livramento 7 (for Trippier 67)
Jacob Murphy 8 (for Elanga 67)
A fine assist.
Anthony Gordon 7 (for Osula 67)
Joe Willock (for Barnes 90)
\*Subs must play 15 minutes to earn a mark.
Watch Newcastle vs Barcelona for free
Newcastle United have reached the UEFA Champions League round of 16 where they host Barcelona on March 10. Fans can watch the game for free with an Amazon Prime subscription or 30-day trial.