Qarabag and Newcastle battle in Champions League playoff

The Magpies travel to Baku looking to advance in Europe's top club competition.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 1:55am

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In a matchup of two clubs with contrasting European pedigrees, Qarabag hosts Newcastle United in the Champions League knockout playoff round. Qarabag impressed in the group stage, including a 2-2 draw with Chelsea, while Newcastle have been inconsistent this season but are hoping to pull off a road upset in Baku.

Why it matters

This is a crucial match for both clubs as they look to advance in the Champions League. For Qarabag, it's a chance to continue their impressive European run and potentially reach the group stage for the first time. For Newcastle, it's an opportunity to make a statement in Europe and build momentum after an up-and-down domestic campaign.

The details

Qarabag, led by long-time manager Gurban Gurbanov, will look to their attacking trio of Abdellah Zoubir, Leandro Andrade and Camilo Duran to cause problems for the Newcastle defense. The Magpies, meanwhile, will be without key midfielders Bruno Guimaraes and Tino Livramento due to injury, but will hope the likes of Anthony Gordon, Anthony Elanga and Nick Woltemade can provide the offensive spark.

  • The match will take place on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 8:00 PM GMT.

The players

Gurban Gurbanov

The long-time manager of Qarabag, who has been in charge since 2008.

Abdellah Zoubir

One of Qarabag's attacking stars, part of their impressive front three.

Bruno Guimaraes

A key midfielder for Newcastle who is expected to miss the match due to injury.

Anthony Gordon

An attacking player for Newcastle who will look to provide a spark in the absence of some injured teammates.

Eddie Howe

The manager of Newcastle United, tasked with guiding the Magpies to victory in this crucial Champions League playoff.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The winner of this tie will advance to the Champions League group stage, while the loser will be eliminated from the competition.

The takeaway

This matchup between Qarabag and Newcastle promises to be an entertaining affair, with both teams looking to make their mark in Europe's premier club competition. The absence of key players for Newcastle could prove pivotal, but the Magpies will be hoping their attacking talent can overcome the challenge posed by the impressive Qarabag side.