Bruno Guimaraes makes 'very difficult' Newcastle United admission after FA Cup win

Bruno Guimaraes has provided his reaction to Newcastle United's FA Cup fifth round victory against Championship side Blackburn Rovers.

Eddie Howe's men required penalties to see off Blackburn after Sammie Szmodics cancelled out Anthony Gordon's opener. Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka emerged as the hero in the shootout, diving to deny both Szmodics and Dominic Hyam to win 4-3.

Guimaraes joined Fabian Schar, Elliot Anderson and Gordon in scoring their spot kicks and reacting on X, formerly known as Twitter, after the game, the Brazilian said: "A very difficult game where we had to do our best to move forward! Happy for our team and very proud of today’s work. we follow our goals 🖤🤍3️⃣9️⃣"

It is only the second time in 18 years Newcastle have reached the quarter finals of the FA Cup. It's also the first time they have won a penalty shootout in the competition.

"I think there is only one emotion and that is relief," said Howe. "I think it was a hard-fought cup tie. Both sides gave everything to get the win and didn't give an inch but we are delighted to be in the hat for the next round. "I think when you see the season we have had and the situation we are in, this was never going to be an easy cup tie. Martin [Dubravka] made some great saves that we needed him to make and we also missed some golden opportunities in the final third.

"The most important thing is that our season cracks on and we are thrilled to get through to the next round."

The draw for the next round takes place on Wednesday night at 7pm before Chelsea host Leeds United at Stamford Bridge.