Champions League: Newcastle extend lead over Qarabag & Bodo visit Inter

Newcastle United moved a step closer to the Champions League last-16 on Tuesday night, extending their advantage over Azerbaijani champions Qarabag in the first leg of their knockout play-off tie. With live text coverage confirming every kick of the contest, the Magpies capitalised on home momentum to seize control of the tie before next week’s return leg.

Elsewhere in the competition’s play-off bracket, Norwegian side FK Bodo/Glimt travelled to Milan to face Inter, bringing a fearless streak to the San Siro as they look to spring an upset against the Italian giants. The visitors, fresh from domestic success under the Arctic Circle, arrived determined to keep the tie alive ahead of the decisive second leg in Norway.

Both fixtures form part of the revamped Champions League knockout phase, where play-off winners progress to the round of 16. Newcastle’s strong showing against Qarabag underlined their intent to remain in Europe beyond the winter, while Bodo’s trip to Inter offered a tantalising clash of styles between Serie A pedigree and Eliteserien exuberance.

Attention now turns to the return encounters, with progression on the line and a coveted place among Europe’s elite clubs waiting for the victors.