Barcelona might have obtained a well timed increase forward of their essential UEFA Champions League spherical of 16 second leg in opposition to Newcastle United at Spotify Camp Nou.
With the tie completely balanced after the primary leg, each small benefit might show decisive for Hansi Flick’s aspect.
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The primary assembly between the 2 groups resulted in a dramatic .
Newcastle seemed to be heading in the direction of a useful away victory earlier than Barcelona managed to attain late within the match, leaving the competition extensive open forward of the return leg in Catalonia.
Due to that outcome, the upcoming match at Camp Nou will successfully act as a winner-takes-all conflict.
Nevertheless, the Catalan aspect may gain advantage from an vital absence within the Newcastle squad.
What’s the story?
In response to Eddie Howe, Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes will journey with the crew to Barcelona however is not going to participate within the match on account of health considerations.
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The Brazilian has been one of many Premier League aspect’s most influential gamers this season, so his absence might considerably have an effect on Eddie Howe’s plans.
Bruno Guimaraes shall be unavailable in opposition to Barcelona. (Photograph by Richard Pelham/Getty Pictures)
Talking throughout his pre-match press convention forward of Newcastle’s Premier League fixture in opposition to Chelsea, Howe offered an replace on the midfielder’s situation and confirmed that he is not going to function in opposition to Barcelona.
“Bruno shall be again on Monday. He plans to journey to Barcelona—to not play, however to help his teammates.
“He’s performed an unbelievable job along with his restoration. I’m hopeful that he’ll be able to play after the worldwide break,” Howe mentioned, as quoted by .
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A big loss
Guimaraes has been sidelined since struggling a thigh damage on February 10 throughout Newcastle’s match in opposition to Tottenham Hotspur.
Since then, the midfielder has missed eight consecutive video games whereas specializing in his restoration.
In the meantime, regardless of the setback and the late aim conceded within the first leg in opposition to Barcelona, Howe expressed satisfaction in how his crew has responded all through the season.
“The gamers have responded very properly. In fact, it was an enormous disappointment to concede that aim on the finish [against Barcelona], however I’m very pleased with the general efficiency.
“This season, the gamers have proven nice resilience within the face of outcomes, disappointments, and successes,” Howe mentioned.