Newcastle United swept into the Champions League last 16 in style, easing past Qarabag with a lively 3–2 win at St James' Park to seal a commanding 9–3 aggregate triumph.
Having effectively decided the tie with a thumping first-leg victory in Baku, Eddie Howe’s side wasted no time removing any lingering doubt. Within six electric minutes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton struck to stun the visitors and ignite the home crowd, setting the tone for a night that felt more celebratory than nervy.
Qarabag showed admirable spirit. Goals from Camilo Durán and Elvin Jafarguliyev—either side of Sven Botman’s towering header—briefly added intrigue, but the outcome was never truly in question. Newcastle’s composure and attacking intent ultimately told as they closed the door on any comeback.
The result marks a landmark moment for Eddie Howe, who has guided the Magpies into the knockout rounds for the first time. It also ensures a strong English presence in Europe’s elite competition, with Newcastle joining Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur in the next round.
Tonali opened the scoring after a scramble in the box, and moments later Joelinton volleyed home emphatically to double the lead. Despite Qarabag’s resistance—highlighted by a saved penalty and several near misses—Newcastle’s attacking quality and set-piece threat proved decisive.
With either Chelsea or Barcelona awaiting, the Magpies now look ahead with ambition rather than relief. Reaching the knockouts was the target; now, Newcastle have their sights firmly set on going even further in the UEFA Champions League.