While the play-offs for the 1/8 finals of the European Champions League were heating up, Newcastle United hit their opponent hard enough to “bring him to his senses” on their trip to Azerbaijan. The match against Qarabag ended with a score of 6:1, and the issue of the semi-finals was practically resolved.
The match took place on February 18 at the Tofik Bahromov Stadium. As soon as the hosts entered the field, the guests turned on the pressure: Anthony Gordon opened the scoring in the 3rd minute of the match. Then the game turned into a complete "Newcastle scenario": Gordon scored three more times, including two from the penalty spot (32 and 45+1). The rest of the goals were scored by Malik Tiau (8) and Jacob Murphy (72).
The hosts' only answer came in the 55th minute - Jafarguliev scored a goal. But by that time, the score became "heavy", and the rhythm of the game was in the hands of the guests. Fun fact: Tiau got a booking in the 72nd minute - but it wasn't the detail that stopped Newcastle on the night.
ECHL. 1/8 final stage
Karabakh — Newcastle 1:6
February 18, Tofiq Bahromov stadium
Goals: Jafarguliev (55) — Gordon (3, 32 penalty, 33, 45+1 penalty), Tiau (8), Murphy (72).
Karabakh - Kohalski, Silva, Mustafozada, Medina, Jafaguliev, Bikallo, Yankovic, Andrade (Guseynov, 46), Kabayero (Kadi, 85), Zubir (Addai, 85), Duran (Gurbanli, 88).
Newcastle — Pope, Trippier (Joelinton, 77), Thiau, Byrne, Hall, Tonali, Willock (Ramsey, 68), Elanga (Murphy, 68), Voltemade, Barnes (New, 88), Gordon (Osula, 68).
Warning: Thiau (72).
Now the return match will be held in England on February 24. 6:1 is a score after which it will take not only character, but also a “football miracle” to come back to the opponent. “Qarabag” will go to the return match after a painful defeat at home to at least preserve its reputation, at least give hope to its fans. For “Newcastle”, the task is simple: to finish the job without losing composure.
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