As full a Camp Nou as possible for the first Champions League knockout game back at Barcelona’s famous home with supporters present since before Covid, is what greeted the players as they walked out on Wednesday night.
Barca were looking to progress from a Champions League knockout tie that they’d drawn the first leg of for an 11th straight time, and with an average of 3.1 goals in the last 16 Champions League games at home, the pressure was all on Newcastle.
However, the Magpies had already avoided defeat at both Paris Saint-Germain and Leverkusen, despite going behind in both games, so the game wasn’t likely to be a walkover for the hosts.
Let’s take a look at three talking points from the game…
Ups and downs from Lamine Yamal
(Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
(Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Getty Images
In the first half, particularly, we saw the full range from Lamine Yamal.
A brilliantly taken penalty, some excellent interplay and always on the front foot, the youngster does things that make you forget he’s just 18 years of age.
However, a ridiculous attempt at a backheel, which got the punishment it deserved, ought to have seen him dug out by Hansi Flick at half time.
There’s a time and a place for that kind of showboating, and it was neither the time nor the place.
A right-footed shot over the bar when it looked easier to score completed his topsy-turvy opening 45.
During the second half, however, it was vintage Lamine, and his misdemeanours will quickly be forgotten as a result.
Nervy back line and injury to Joan Garcia
(Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
(Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Getty Images
Even before Ronald Araujo came on for Eric Garcia, Barca’s back line was being opened up with ease.
The pace at which Newcastle were able to break down the channels in the first half caused the Blaugranes’ defence untold problems, and in many respects the visitors showed how simple it is to beat the high press if passes are crisp and accurate.
Often at sixes and sevens before half-time, the Catalans at least redeemed themselves after the break.
However, Joan Garcia’s late injury will be a worry. The goalkeeper reportedly missed training in the week and hopefully this is a problem that will not keep him sidelined for long.
A return of the Barca we know and love
(Photo by Lluis GENE / AFP via Getty Images)
(Photo by Lluis GENE / AFP via Getty Images)
AFP via Getty Images
What a second-half performance!
Whatever Hansi Flick said in the dressing room during the break, it clearly worked. Barca were rampant, and the Magpies just couldn’t live with them.
Every single player was much more purposeful, the intensity was insane, and the three goals scored between half-time and the hour mark were totally deserved.
With the Camp Nou in full voice as a result, it was a throwback moment and like watching Barca of old. Brilliant!