Barcelona manager reveals best way to beat Newcastle United in Champions League
Newcastle United came out swinging but were ultimately left tasting the canvas against Barcelona last night.
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has highlighted “not conceding” in the first 15 minutes as the key to victory at St James’ Park.
Newcastle United - buoyed by a raucous home crowd - came flying out of the blocks from the first whistle, putting Barca under the cosh early on. Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes spurned two opportunities to put the Magpies in front.
The visitors ultimately weathered the storm before stunning Newcastle with a quick-fire Marcus Rashford double. His second, in particular, was one of the best goals St James’ Park will see this season.
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Hansi Flick on Newcastle United gameplan
Speaking post-match, Flick praised the atmosphere while noting that dampening the noise was integral to their game plan. The complexion of the game could have changed if Gordon buried his first-half chance.
"It's the Champions League and there is always a great atmosphere,” Flick told reporters. “We knew that it was important to not concede on the opening 15 minutes and I am really pleased with what we have done and I am happy with the team.”
Nick Woltemade praised
Flick also hailed his compatriot, Nick Woltemade, for his impact from the bench. He added: “I didn’t know him much,” he said. “I saw some matches. I was really surprised about how he increased his level. For the Premier League, he’s a good option for every coach.
“I’m happy. We’ll see how he improves. I think he has a lot of potential to improve. In the Premier League, you have to improve to play. I’m really happy that Germany has a really good No.9 and it’s good for Julian Nagelsmann.”
‘Disappointing’ - Eddie Howe
Reflecting on the game, Eddie Howe said: “Disappointing. We were really in the game. I never felt we were out of it. I’m disappointed we didn’t score the first goal. That was crucial. We had the chance to do it. It was a whole-hearted, gutsy display but maybe lacking the quality to get us the win.
“It was a good performance but not a great one and to beat Barcelona it has to be a great one. We had two great chances but the first goal was important. We tried to make it difficult for Barcelona to settle into the game and wanted to win the ball high up when they played out from the back.
“So I was pretty pleased with that. When you are chasing the game against them it becomes very difficult, as they exploit gaps that maybe you wouldn’t have left previously.”