An AI-generated image of Eddie Howe lifting the Champions League for Newcastle Unitedplaceholder image
An AI-generated image of Eddie Howe lifting the Champions League for Newcastle United | Grok
Newcastle United can expect to net a tidy windfall if they knock Barcelona out of the Champions League.
Newcastle United remain alive in the tie but face a daunting task to progress to the Champions League quarter-finals. Frustration emanated around Tyneside at the full-time whistle, with Malick Thiaw’s clumsy outstretched leg gifting Barcelona an undeserved stoppage-time equaliser.
The Catalans are a different beast in their own backyard - the Camp Nou takes no prisoners. There was a sense that Newcastle - the best team on the night by a country mile - fluffed their chance to put a dent into the Barca dressing room.
Thousands will travel to Catalonia next week for a fairytale European adventure that seemed like a pipe dream five years ago. Never before have the Toon Army enjoyed a last-16 clash on the road.
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NewcastleWorld's Champions League coverage is proudly sponsored by Howdens Blyth. | NewcastleWorld
A valiant effort against Paris Saint-Germain - a better team than Barcelona - should offer confidence. Hansi Flick’s high line will offer chances for Newcastle’s rapid frontline to exploit.
The Magpies are merely underdogs, not lambs to the slaughter. Supporters will travel to the La Liga leaders firmly believing they can upset the apple cart.
Prize money if Newcastle United beat Barcelona
Dumping out one of the competition’s favourites in their own backyard would be Newcastle’s greatest ever European achievement. The financial situation instantly becomes a lot healthier too.
For progressing to the quarter-finals alone, the Magpies would bank an extra £10.8million on top of what they have already won. In total, the BBC estimates Newcastle to have earned £32.4million for their European heroics before factoring in broadcast or matchday revenue.
Aston Villa’s participation in the Champions League last season fetched £72million once all sources of income were calculated. Expect Newcastle’s balance sheet to provide a similar outcome should they reach the quarter-finals. A tidy windfall ahead of the summer transfer window…
Eddie Howe’s words after Barcelona draw
"I think it is soft but Malick (Thiaw) makes contact,” Eddie Howe said. "We had our shape, there's no way we should concede that goal. We will look at it but I don't want it to override the 93 minutes before that in which we were quality.
"I thought we had enough to score before we did. The game showed we are capable but we know we probably have to give more going to their stadium. We are capable of doing it but we will need to be at our very best.
"It is my job to try and pick them up. We have unfortunately had to do that a few times this season but our strength of character should never be in doubt. We will be ready by the time the next game comes round. We believe in ourselves and our capability and we have shown that today."
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