The first leg of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League Round of 16 will take place, with Newcastle United hosting La Liga leaders Barcelona. Manager Eddie Howe stated in his press conference that the team must step up at such a crucial moment and unleash their energy in a tough match.

In an earlier FA Cup match, Newcastle took the lead with a goal from Harvey Barnes, but conceded several goals in the remainder of the game, ultimately losing 1-3 to Manchester City. With Newcastle currently 12th in the Premier League, advancing further in the Champions League is now the Magpies' primary objective.

As for Barcelona, Flick's team defeated Athletic Bilbao 1-0 in the earlier La Liga match, successfully entering the Champions League with a 3-game winning streak.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said: "For me, this is definitely one of the most important games for the club in recent years, and this is the mentality we need. To step up at times like these and embrace the importance of the game. I think these factors have helped us many times this season, and we hope to do it again this time."

"During my time coaching here, being underestimated has sometimes actually helped us. When we feel that the outside world doesn't have high hopes for us, it can actually motivate the team. In games like this, we need to use all psychological means to help ourselves because we are facing a very good team. I must say, they are also a very well-coached team. We have studied them very carefully to prepare for these two games, and they are definitely a top team."

Regarding the second leg against Barcelona at Camp Nou, Eddie Howe said, "I think some recent match experience will be helpful for the two-legged tie. I feel like all the Champions League matches this season have been a rehearsal for this moment, and that's how we view the competition. Now, this is the moment when we must give our best performance."

Furthermore, when discussing defender Liframento's condition, Eddie Howe stated, "Based on the number of training sessions, I'm not 100% sure he's in top physical condition, especially for a very important game starting. However, he's back in the squad, and any player on the squad has a chance to play. The current issue is finding a delicate balance in using Liframento."

“He’s back in training and in good spirits. He’s a very important player for us, and it’s great to see him back. Of course, I have to make the right lineup choices.”

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