Mbappé and VAR hurt Newcastle as stoppage-time penalty saves PSG

Newcastle has eagerly awaited a return to the Champions League group stage for 20 years, and after a night of intense stress and drama, they survive to fight another day in the formidable Group of Death.

The night could have ended more triumphantly, with Newcastle coming within minutes of a glorious victory that would have placed them in control of their destiny for the last-16, setting the stage for a decisive home tie against Milan.

In a match demanding both cool heads and lion hearts, Eddie Howe’s team displayed exceptional composure and determination. Faced with a selection crisis that deprived him of 10 senior players, Howe’s solution was to push his starting eleven through the entire game. As Paris Saint-Germain relentlessly attacked their goal in the second half, Newcastle seemed on the verge of collapse at times. However, they held firm, showcasing a collective effort of Herculean proportions.

Newcastle’s first-half performance as a footballing force was outstanding, weathering an early PSG storm to secure a lead, with Alexander Isak capitalizing on a Gianluigi Donnarumma handling error. The second half saw PSG mounting relentless efforts to score, and the drums beat louder in anticipation of an equalizer. Newcastle resisted admirably, but in the dying moments, a contentious VAR decision awarded PSG a penalty. Kylian Mbappé converted, dealing a cruel blow to Newcastle’s dreams of victory.

While Newcastle must now secure a win against Milan, their progress remains possible, particularly after a promising first-half display. PSG, who started with intensity, posed threats through Lee Kang-in, Fabián Ruiz, and Mbappé. However, Newcastle’s resilience and composure on the ball gradually turned the tide. The buildup to Isak’s goal showcased Livramento’s drive and confidence, with Almirón and Isak capitalizing on Donnarumma’s mistake.

Despite the selection crisis limiting Howe’s bench options, Newcastle’s collective effort in the first half suggested they belonged on the grand stage. The team demonstrated a willingness to fight and make their punches count, belying their 20-year absence from the Champions League group stage.

While PSG dominated possession in the second half, Newcastle’s defense held firm until the controversial penalty decision. Now, Newcastle’s fate depends on their performance against Milan and a potential favor from Borussia Dortmund.

In summary, Newcastle’s Champions League journey, marked by high stress and dramatic moments, remains alive, with the team displaying resilience and determination against one of Europe’s football giants.