Barcelona, Mar 11 (V7N) – Barcelona avoided defeat in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 with a dramatic last-minute goal against Newcastle United.

The English side started aggressively at home, creating several opportunities. If efforts from Tonali and Anthony had been successful, Newcastle could have taken a 3-0 lead by halftime.

After the break, frustration grew in the Barcelona camp as Robert Lewandowski missed a key chance. In the 74th minute, Joelinton’s goal for Newcastle was disallowed for offside, keeping the match level.

Newcastle continued to press, launching repeated attacks that tested Barcelona’s defense. The deadlock finally broke in the 86th minute, with Harvey Barnes scoring for the hosts. However, Barcelona managed to avoid defeat, converting a penalty in stoppage time, leaving Newcastle without a home victory.

The result sets up an intense second leg as both teams prepare for a decisive showdown in the Champions League.

END/SMA/AJ