Newcastle United confirmed their place in the Champions League last 16 following a successful play-off round. The Magpies now await the draw for the knockout phase, which could include potential fixtures against Barcelona or Chelsea. Winger Jacob Murphy stated the squad would relish the challenge of facing Europe's elite sides regardless of the opponent, per Sky Sports.
Eddie Howe's side progressed through the play-off system after finishing third in their initial group. This marks the first time the club has reached the knockout stages of the competition since the 2002-03 season. Newcastle remain one of four Premier League clubs left in the tournament alongside Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool, according to the Premier League.
Uefa will conduct the draw for the round of 16 in Nyon. Newcastle cannot be drawn against other English teams in this round but could face any seeded group winner. The first-leg fixtures are scheduled for mid-March, with return legs following in April, per Sky Sports reports.
