Newcastle crushes Qarabağ 6-1 in Champions League playoff opener

A first-half masterclass by Gordon leaves Qarabağ reeling. Can Newcastle's firepower seal their spot in the last 16?

, and ASMedia

2026 February 19 . 12:11 AM

1 min read

The image shows a group of young people standing on top of a soccer field, clapping their hands in... — The image shows a group of young people standing on top of a soccer field, clapping their hands in celebration. In the background, there is a board with the words "Ligue 1" written on it, indicating that the group is celebrating a victory. The people in the image are wearing football uniforms, suggesting that they are part of a team.

Newcastle crushes Qarabağ 6-1 in Champions League playoff opener

Newcastle United secured a dominant 6-1 win over Qarabağ FK in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff tie. The lopsided result leaves the Azerbaijani side needing a near-impossible comeback in the second leg to progress.

Anthony Gordon led the charge with four goals in the first half alone. His clinical finishing put Newcastle firmly in control before the break. Malick Thiaw and Jacob Murphy also found the net, extending the lead further.

Qarabağ FK managed a late consolation through Elvin Jafarguliyev, but it did little to change the outcome. Nick Woltemade started for Newcastle but remained scoreless in the match.

The heavy victory positions Newcastle strongly for a place in the Champions League last 16. A second-leg turnaround by Qarabağ would now rank among football's most unlikely upsets.

Newcastle's six-goal haul leaves them with a commanding advantage ahead of the return fixture. Their attacking display sets a clear path toward the knockout stages. Qarabağ must now overcome a five-goal deficit to stay in the Champions League.