Newcastle Prove They Belong Among Europe’s Elite After Gritty PSG Draw
Newcastle United left Paris with belief rather than bitterness this time, earning a gritty draw against Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain to underline their growing stature on the European stage.
A couple of years on from a controversial 1-1 draw that denied them a famous victory, Eddie Howe’s side again finished level — but this time after coming from behind with a composed and resilient display.
Newcastle showed discipline and courage in one of Europe’s toughest away fixtures, responding well after falling behind and refusing to be overawed by the reigning champions. The performance marked a sharp contrast to some uneven away displays earlier in the campaign.
The result was not enough to secure automatic qualification for the last 16, but it leaves Newcastle well placed ahead of a play-off tie against Monaco or Qarabag.
“We wanted to win tonight,” Howe said. “But if there’s ever a game to give us confidence, it’s this one.”
As the travelling support sang long after full-time, Newcastle departed Paris with renewed confidence — and clear evidence they can compete with Europe’s elite.
