Paris, France: In a stunning display of resilience, Newcastle United came within seconds of a remarkable Champions League upset against Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes, only to be denied by a controversial late penalty.
Kylian Mbappe converted the spot-kick, salvaging a draw for PSG and leaving Newcastle’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages hanging in the balance.
The turning point came in the match’s dying moments when referee Szymon Marciniak, following a VAR review, awarded a penalty for handball against Tino Livramento.
The Newcastle defender, who had put in an impressive performance throughout the game, saw the ball strike his arm as Ousmane Dembele’s cross made contact.
It was a heartbreaking conclusion for Eddie Howe’s side, who had taken the lead in the first half through Aleksander Isak. The striker capitalized on Miguel Almiron’s rebounded effort to give Newcastle a crucial advantage.
Despite facing relentless pressure from PSG, Newcastle’s defence, led by goalkeeper Nick Pope, held firm, making crucial saves and denying clear opportunities.
The visitors’ relentless defence seemed destined to secure a famous victory, but fate took a cruel turn in stoppage time. Mbappe, who had been thwarted earlier by Pope, stepped up to convert the contentious penalty, leaving Newcastle players and fans alike frustrated and disappointed.
The result places Newcastle in third position in Group F, trailing PSG by two points. To secure a spot in the last 16, Eddie Howe’s side now faces a must-win scenario in their final group game against AC Milan. Simultaneously, they rely on already qualified Borussia Dortmund to avoid defeat against PSG.
Newcastle’s journey in the Champions League has been marred by injuries, with an extensive list forcing them to name two goalkeepers on the bench alongside four teenagers.
However, the players on the pitch showcased tremendous determination, fighting against the odds and nearly clinching a historic victory in Paris.
While the penalty decision raised eyebrows and sparked debates, it overshadowed what was an outstanding defensive effort from Newcastle.
The team’s ability to withstand PSG’s attacking prowess and the heroics of goalkeeper Nick Pope will be remembered despite the late heartbreak.
Eddie Howe’s men now face a daunting task in their final group fixture, needing a victory against AC Milan and relying on other results to favour their progression.
The rollercoaster journey for Newcastle in the Champions League continues, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the decisive clash that will determine their fate in the prestigious tournament.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
