Newcastle United’s European dream shatter after a 2-1 defeat to Milan

Newcastle United were defeated 2-1 by AC Milan at St James’ Park in their final game of Group F, as their run in the Champions League ended in agony.

The Magpies finished last in Group F, earning just five points in the process. Whereas Borussia Dortmund (11 points) topped the group, PSG (8 points) came second, and Milan (8 points) claimed the third spot.

Eddie Howe’s side took the lead in the 33rd minute after Joelinton’s brilliant strike, and their place in the round of 16 was almost secured.

However, Christian Pulisic’s 59th-minute equaliser, and substitute Samuel Chukwueze’s 84th-minute goal not only ended their dreams of qualifying for the next round but it dumped them out of Europe altogether.

Joelinton missed the early games of the campaign through injury, but made up for it with a thumping half volley in the 34th minute. He exchanged passes with Gordon and smashed into the top corner to take the lead.

Newcastle United crash out of Europe

The Magpies’ lead in the first half was a deserved one. The Brazilian celebrated his goal like Eric Cantona, standing still and looking round at the crowd soaking it in. He also celebrated his goal with manager Eddie Howe.

In the second half, Yunus Musah crossed the ball into Newcastle United’s box, but they failed to clear it, and Olivier Giroud nudged a deft layoff to Pulisic to finish from close range.

In need of a winner the Magpies were leaving gaps at the back. Bruno Guimaraes had a shot tipped onto the bar in 68th-minute as they regained some momentum.

In the end when just six minutes were remaining the Rossoneri were able to take the lead through Samuel Chukwueze, which ended the English side’s hope of qualifying for the next round.

Finishing in 3rd place in Group F would’ve guaranteed them Europa League football. But the Magpies finished in 4th place, just like Manchester United.

With this defeat, Newcastle have now lost 3 games in a row at St James’ Park. The build-up to the game was electric as well. A giant banner reading: “It’s not beyond our wildest dreams, because we did have wild dreams,” summed up ambition.