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[Getty Images] "The way it ended it is a tough one to take but we have to remember it is only halfway through the tie," said Newcastle boss Eddie Howe after his side had to settle for a 1-1 draw despite a sterling first-leg performance at St James' Park last week. As it is, Lamine Yamal's last-gasp leveller from the spot suggests it's advantage Barcelona, who have only lost twice at home to English opposition in their history (W22, D13). Did you know?
Barcelona have progressed in 10 of their 15 previous two-legged Champions League ties against English clubs. The five-times winners haven't reached a Champions League final since their 2014-15 success. Last week's equaliser was Yamal's ninth Champions League goal, meaning he is just one shy of equalling Kylian Mbappe's record of goals scored in the competition before turning 19.
Barcelona player to watch - Lamine Yamal (18) A generational talent, the skilful Spanish winger remains the youngest player to start a game in this competition (against Porto in October 2023). Already in his fourth season in senior football, he has notched 45 goals in 141 games since graduating from La Masia. He has four goals and three assists in this season's competition.
Who else? While others provide flair and goals in abundance, much of Barcelona's play is dictated by Spain midfielder Pedri, a veteran of more than 300 games for club and country at the age of just 23. A trio of muscle injuries have caused the Canary Islander to miss 13 games this season but, when fit, he remains a key cog in the possession-based approach of Hansi Flick's side.