In an intense Champions League clash at St. James’ Park, AC Milan secured their place in the Europa League by defeating Newcastle 2-1. Despite the Rossoneri being eliminated from the Champions League, the match was marked by thrilling moments.
Newcastle initially took the lead with a goal from Joelinton, but Milan mounted a comeback in the second half. Christian Pulisic and Samuel Chukwueze scored crucial goals, ensuring a dramatic turnaround.
The game kicked off amidst a vibrant atmosphere at St. James’ Park, with the home side utilizing the crowd’s energy to exert early pressure on Milan’s defense.
Although Newcastle couldn’t create clear-cut chances in the initial exchanges, they maintained possession in the final third, requiring Milan to stay vigilant.
Milan’s attacking efforts lacked intensity in the early stages, with the Magpies dominating possession.
The breakthrough for Newcastle came in the 20th minute when Joelinton’s precise shot found the top corner, giving the home team a deserved 1-0 lead.
The second half saw Newcastle maintaining pressure, but Milan remained in contention. With Borussia Dortmund taking a 1-0 lead against Paris Saint-Germain, both Newcastle and Milan knew a win would advance them.
Around the hour mark, news of PSG’s equalizer arrived, coinciding with Milan’s own breakthrough. Leao’s delivery into the box led to a ricochet, and Pulisic seized the opportunity to equalize.
Newcastle responded strongly, creating chances, including a shot from Bruno Guimaraes that was brilliantly saved by Milan’s goalkeeper Maignan. Milan made crucial substitutions, introducing Pobega and Jovic, while the match hung in the balance with PSG’s scoreline against Dortmund.
