Introduction

Newcastle, making their long-awaited return to the Champions League after 20 years, surprised the seven-time champions AC Milan with a resilient performance, resulting in a goalless draw in the first round of the group stage on Tuesday.

Match Summary

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe approached his first Champions League experience with grace. However, Milan gradually found their rhythm and began to pose a threat to the visitors’ goal. Players like Samuel Chukwueze, Olivier Giroud, Rafael Leao, Rade Krunic, and Theo Hernandez tried their luck, but Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope was up to the challenge.

Despite some other opportunities for Milan, especially for Leao and Giroud, who failed to capitalize on their chances, the first half ended in a goalless draw. Newcastle displayed strong defensive capabilities in the second half, effectively closing down spaces for Milan players.

Milan suffered a blow late in the match when their French goalkeeper Mike Magnane got injured. He was replaced by new signing Marco Sportiello in the final minutes as Milan desperately pushed for a breakthrough that never came.

Disappointing Result for Milan

The draw represents a disappointing result for Milan, especially after their humiliating 5-1 defeat to local rivals Inter in the league. Their next two group stage opponents, Paris Saint-Germain of France and Borussia Dortmund, will also pose tough challenges.

Source: Agencies