Newcastle predicted XI vs Qarabag: In-form Gordon and Barnes look to take down vulnerable Azerbaijani champions (4-3-3) | OneFootball

Newcastle United aim to take a major step towards the round of 16 when they travel to face Qarabag in the first leg of their Champions League knockout phase play-off tonight.

The Magpies arrive in confident mood following an impressive domestic cup victory, but face a Qarabag side enjoying their best-ever European campaign.

While Newcastle are favourites to reach the last 16, the Azerbaijani champions are eager to continue their remarkable journey, setting up a high-stakes European encounter.

Match preview

Newcastle head into the clash boosted by their recent 3-1 comeback victory over Aston Villa in the FA Cup, with Sandro Tonali delivering a standout display with two goals.

That victory continued a promising run of results for Eddie Howe’s side as they attempt to balance domestic and European ambitions.

The Magpies finished 12th in the Champions League league phase to reach the play-offs. Only Arsenal FC conceded fewer goals during that stage of the competition.

Newcastle’s attacking threat has largely come from wide areas, with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes playing pivotal roles.

The duo have combined for 70% of the club’s goals in the competition and will again be key figures in breaking down Qarabag’s defence.

Meanwhile, Qarabag have already made history by becoming the first Azerbaijani club to reach this stage of the Champions League.

Despite a heavy defeat to Liverpool during the league phase, they produced impressive results earlier in the campaign and have been dangerous on home soil.

The hosts rely heavily on forward Camilo Duran, who has scored four goals in the competition and remains central to their attacking strategy.

Match stats

This will be Newcastle’s longest-ever away journey in European competition, travelling over 2,500 miles to face Qarabag.

Qarabag have conceded 21 goals in the competition, one of the highest totals among teams still in the competition.

The Geordies will back themselves to score against the home side.

Newcastle have lost just one of their last six European fixtures, while Qarabag have won just one of their last six European matches but boast a strong home scoring record.

Newcastle team news

Howe faces several injury concerns heading into the fixture, with midfield lynchpin Bruno Guimaraes sidelined with a hamstring problem.

Defenders Tino Livramento and Fabian Schar are also unavailable, while Joelinton, Lewis Miley and Yoane Wissa will be assessed ahead of kick-off.

‘Outstanding goalkeeper’ Nick Pope is expected replace Aaron Ramsdale and start between the posts.