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Barcelona and Newcastle Name XIs for Champions League Decider
The stage is set at a packed Camp Nou as Barcelona and Newcastle United have unveiled their official starting lineups for the second leg of their thrilling Champions League round of 16 tie. With the aggregate score delicately poised at 1-1 after last week’s dramatic draw at St. James’ Park, both managers have named strong XIs to fight for a place in the quarter-finals .
Barcelona’s Starting XI
Hansi Flick has made just one change to his starting lineup from the first leg, handing a start to Eric Garcia in defense. As expected, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal retains his place on the right wing, supported by the firepower of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha .
Barcelona Official Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Joan Garcia; Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, João Cancelo; Marc Bernal, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Fermín López, Raphinha; Robert Lewandowski .
Subs: Szczesny, Kochen, Araújo, Gavi, Ferran Torres, Rashford, Casadó, Dani Olmo, Bardghji, Cortes, Xavi Espart, Marques .
Newcastle United’s Starting XI
Eddie Howe has also made a single alteration, bringing in the in-form Anthony Gordon. After scoring the winner against Chelsea at the weekend, Gordon replaces Will Osula to lead the line for the Magpies in what is arguably the biggest game in the club’s recent European history .
Newcastle United Official Starting XI (4-3-3):
Aaron Ramsdale; Kieran Trippier, Malick Thiaw, Dan Burn, Lewis Hall; Sandro Tonali, Joelinton, Jacob Ramsey; Anthony Elanga, Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes .
Subs: Pope, Ruddy, Harris, Botman, Wissa, Osula, Livramento, J. Murphy, Woltemade, Willock, A. Murphy, Neave .
The Decisive Battle
Kick-off at the Camp Nou is set for 18:45 CET. Barcelona boast a formidable unbeaten record against English sides at home, having not lost in 14 such matches since 2007 . However, Newcastle arrive in Catalonia high on confidence after a gritty win at Chelsea and remain unbeaten in their last six Champions League outing With everything to play for, a thrilling 90 minutes (and potentially more) awaits.
