Posted on: October 5, 2023, 09:04h.
Last updated on: October 5, 2023, 09:04h.
Few expected Newcastle Utd to upset Paris Saint Germain in the Champion’s League on Wednesday. However, the EPL team emerged as 4-1 victors against the French champions in a memorable night at St James’ Park.
Goals from Miguel Almiron, Fabian Schar, and local players Dan Burn and Sean Longstaff shocked PSG, a team consisting of Kilian Mbappe and standing as one of the most expensive squads in soccer history at $1 billion.
After a shaky start in the EPL season, aside from an 8-0 win against Sheffield Utd, this is Newcastle’s first appearance in the Champions League in 21 years. The team finds themselves in the challenging “Group of Death” alongside PSG, AC Milan, and Borussia Dortmund. They previously achieved a nervous 0-0 draw against Milan in their first group game.
PSG Struggles to Get Going
Despite Newcastle’s impressive performance, PSG had difficulty finding their rhythm in the match. In fact, they failed to make a single shot on target during the first half, something that hasn’t occurred in a PSG Champions League match in over a decade.
“I am responsible for what happened this evening,” said PSG manager Luis Enrique. “My team’s attitude was very good throughout. The outcome of the game was fair, my players struggled with their pressing game. We made some careless mistakes which at this level you cannot afford to do.”
Initially favored to win the group, PSG’s odds have now shifted. They are currently joint favorites with Newcastle, both at 6/4. The “Group of Death” has become wide open.
Arsenal Faces Setback
Meanwhile, the top four contenders to win the competition remain the same. Reigning champion Man City leads the pack at 9/4, followed by Bayern Munich (5/1), Real Madrid (15/2), and Arsenal (10/1).
Arsenal’s odds have slightly drifted after their unexpected 2-1 defeat against French team Lens on Tuesday night. To make matters worse, key player Bukayo Saka had to leave the match in the first half due to a suspected hamstring injury.
Saka’s absence will be felt as Arsenal prepares to host Man City in a crucial EPL game. City is the favorite to win, with odds at 6/4, while Arsenal stands at 2/1.