After the match against Barcelona, Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe, when speaking in an interview with Camel Live, said:
“The result of this match is disappointing. We worked hard throughout the entire match, and I never felt we were completely outclassed. I’m disappointed that we couldn’t score the first goal—it was crucial. We had the chance to do it, but we didn’t take it. It was a fully committed and fighting performance, but we may have fallen short at key moments, which prevented us from winning.”
“We wanted to create a difficult environment through high-intensity play, and I think we achieved that. It’s just that the ball didn’t take a favorable bounce under pressure. We also created chances in the first half, but against a team like this, opportunities are few and far between. We were punished for that.”
“Of course, we could have done better with both goals we conceded, especially the first one. I’m disappointed that the opponent was able to reach the cross, and also disappointed with how the ball got to his feet for the second goal.”
"Overall, this was a very good performance that showed our effort. Only a win would have made this night a good one, but we will learn from a game like this and improve our level of play. We fought until the end of the match, and that’s something we’re proud of. They controlled the game well in extra time—we fought hard for the ball, but couldn’t regain possession from them."
