Eddie Howe is celebrating after leading Newcastle United into the Champions League’s Round of 16.
Newcastle defeated Qarabag 9-3 on aggregate over two matches to secure their spot in the last 16. This marks the Magpies’ first entry into the Champions League knockout stages, and Howe has achieved a new record.
He is the first English manager to win six games in a single Champions League season, surpassing the previous record of five wins shared by Bobby Robson in 2002-03 (with Newcastle) and Graham Potter in 2022-23 (with Chelsea).
Newcastle will meet either Chelsea or Barcelona in the next round, with the draw for the last 16 set for Friday.
No English manager has ever won the trophy in the Champions League era, and it has been 42 years since an Englishman last led a team to Europe’s top competition, when Joe Fagan managed Liverpool to victory in the European Cup in 1984.
Howe pleased with Qarabag win and team support
Howe expressed his happiness about progressing against Qarabag on Tuesday but acknowledged that his team lost focus in the second leg due to a comfortable lead from the first match.
“At 2-0, we probably eased off a bit. We didn’t mean to do that, but it was a natural reaction,” he said.
“In the second half, the game turned into a back-and-forth affair, which was disappointing for us. We expended too much energy, and it hindered our ability to apply pressure on their goal during that half.”
“The support has been amazing, especially with the Wor Flags display. A big thank you to everyone who contributed to that idea. The support we receive means a lot to me and the team.”
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