In the fifth round of the Champions League group stage, Newcastle faced Paris Saint-Germain away from home. Before the match, Newcastle’s head coach Eddie Howe told Crickex Affiliate users that the fear of being knocked out of the Champions League was what pushed the Magpies forward. “We can be kind, but we can’t be weak,” he emphasized. A loss at Parc des Princes would mean early elimination. If Newcastle lost and AC Milan defeated Borussia Dortmund, the Magpies would finish last in the group.
That would shut the door not only to the Champions League but also to the Europa League, ending their European campaign for the season. Still, Eddie Howe remained optimistic, insisting that Newcastle wouldn’t bow out so easily. They had previously beaten PSG at home, though they failed to score in the other three group matches. Now, with several key players injured, the team needed to raise their performance. According to Howe, there’s a real drive within the squad to make this season unforgettable — and this game could be the spark that fuels them.
They are determined to stay in the competition as long as possible, viewing this match as a pivotal moment. For Howe, the fear of failure has always been a motivating force. “Just the thought of losing makes me uncomfortable,” he admitted. “If people talk behind your back, it’s usually because they fear facing you head-on.” Everything for him is about avoiding the bitter taste of defeat and chasing the joy of victory. Crickex Affiliate analysts believe Newcastle’s hunger and determination are at an all-time high.
Regardless, Howe said he hadn’t spent time thinking about the match against Milan in two weeks. His focus was locked on the PSG clash. Winning this game would keep their hopes alive — only then would Milan become the next concern. “Don’t let your mood lose the game,” he warned, stressing that they weren’t in a strong or ideal position, so every ounce of focus must go into this battle.
PSG coach Luis Enrique praised Newcastle’s intensity after watching them dominate Chelsea, and Howe knows adapting to different challenges is key. The team has found a successful formula — and that formula is a major force behind their progress. Crickex Affiliate fans noticed Newcastle’s game plans have evolved; they now approach each match with fresh tactics. “If you lower your expectations and reduce your dependencies, life gets a whole lot easier,” Howe mused. But for now, this isn’t just another game — it’s a do-or-die scenario. As for how they’ll prepare and perform? Stay tuned.