Newcastle United are in the draw for the Champions League round of 16.
Eddie Howe’s side marched into this round of Europe’s elite club competition by beating Qarabag 9-3 on aggregate in the play-off round.
Who would you rather play in the R16 and why? 👀
Newcastle United fans hold up a giant banner reading 'Get into them' before their Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Arsenal at St James' Park.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Newcastle United via Getty Images
This is the furthest Newcastle United have ever been in the Champions League, and there is plenty of excitement about what’s to come.
This has been a difficult season for Howe but they will fancy their chances of beating anyone over two games, given their cup record in recent seasons.
With that in mind, here’s all you need to know about the draw.
Date, start time and venue for Champions League round of 16 draw
The Champions League round of 16 draw is scheduled for an 11am GMT start time on Friday, 27 February, 2026.
It will be held at the House of European Football in Nyon, Switzerland.
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How to watch Champions League round of 16 draw for free
The draw will be live streamed for free on UEFA’s official website. It will also be shown on UEFA TV and the official Champions League app.
Who could Newcastle United play in the Champions League round of 16?
Newcastle will play either Barcelona or Chelsea in the round of 16.
The Magpies have never played Chelsea in European competition, but they do have quite the history with Barca.
Who is the best opposition player you’ve ever seen play at St James’ Park?
Pedri would up there…
Bruno Guimaraes playing for Newcastle United against Barcelona in the Champions League.
Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
The Catalan giants beat Newcastle 2-1 in the league phase back in September. Newcastle have played Barcelona five times in European competition, winning once and losing four.
When will the Champions League round of 16 be played?
The Champions League round of 16 will be played in March.
The first legs will be played across Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 March, 2026. The return legs will come a week later on Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 March, 2026.
Previous estimates indicate that Newcastle have earned £9.4million by reaching the round of 16 in the Champions League, and they could be in line to make a further £10.7million if they reach the quarter-finals.
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