Champions League 2025-2026: Qarabag-Newcastle, the likely lineups

The Champions League continues with knockout playoffs. At 6:45 p.m. at Baku’s Tofiq Bahramov Stadium, Qarabag hosts Newcastle in the first leg of a playoff that puts access to the round of 16 at stake. It is an unprecedented confrontation, in fact, never before have the two teams faced each other.

Qarabag is living a European dream. Having made it through the first phase, the Azerbaijanis want to continue to surprise and know that the home factor can make the difference. In their last four home cup matches they have always scored at least two goals, showing courage and offensive quality. However, the enthusiasm of the Baku crowd is an additional weapon in a challenge that will require concentration and great team spirit.

The Newcastle, however, is off to a strong start. The English come to Azerbaijan on the strength of recent league victories, but in Europe they have shown some difficulties, especially in defense: it is seven consecutive games that Newcastle has failed to keep its goal unbroken. A statistic that could weigh heavily in a match that promises to be intense.

The likely lineups

Qarabag (4-2-3-1): Kochalski; Silva, Mustafazada, Medina, Cafarquliyev; Bicalho, Jankovic; Andrade, Montiel, Zoubir; Duran. Coach: Gurbanov.

Newcastle (4-2-3-1): Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Burn, Hall; Ramsey, Tonali; Elanga, Willock, Gordon; Woltemade. Coach: Howe