How PSG sneaked into Champions League last 16 after Newcastle's naivety backfired

Ah, football, the unpredictable mistress. It possesses the power to evoke sheer ecstasy, wrenching heartbreak, and everything in between in the blink of an eye.

Towards the end of their do-or-die showdown with AC Milan, Newcastle threw caution to the wind, with almost every player charging forward. Their objective? To edge out Paris St-Germain, who were only managing a draw against Borussia Dortmund, and secure a spot in the coveted last 16 of the Champions League. Driven by their burning ambition, Newcastle risked it all, fully aware that victory was the key to their advancement. Alas, fate dealt them a cruel hand.

How the hosts dared to dream of a spot in the knockout stages! Their hopes soared when Joelinton unleashed a sensational long-range strike in the 33rd minute, putting them ahead. A result that would have propelled Newcastle through on head-to-head results against PSG. However, the tides swiftly turned just minutes before the hour mark. Warren Zaire-Emery, their standout star, restored parity for the formidable French champions in Germany, while Christian Pulisic leveled the playing field for Milan.

In this wide-open contest, as Newcastle pushed relentlessly for a decisive goal, Milan's goalkeeper Mike Maignan showcased his brilliance. With a stunning save, he deflected Bruno Guimaraes' shot onto the woodwork, denying the home side their moment of glory. And then, to add salt to the wound, substitute Samuel Chukwueze curled in a magnificent finish, sealing Newcastle's worst nightmare and plunging them into the depths of despair.

Newcastle found their destiny out of their own control following the contentious stoppage-time penalty that granted PSG a draw in Paris just two weeks ago. Nevertheless, they were faithfully carrying out their end of the deal by asserting their dominance over a struggling Milan side. The Italian giants seemed overwhelmed by the sheer intensity of their opponents.

But the root of Newcastle's troubles lay in their naivety and the inability to convert their possession into meaningful chances. Their high-risk strategy, employed in the hopes of securing a smash-and-grab win and advancing, proved to be their undoing. Just like Manchester United on Tuesday, Newcastle now sit at the bottom of their group, eliminated from the grandest competition in club football, and bidding adieu to Europe altogether. Their campaign, marred by a sole victory in six matches, has come to a disappointing close.

It's worth acknowledging the stark contrast between Newcastle and United in their respective exits from the tournament. While United suffered a humiliating departure, Newcastle can hold their heads high for their commendable performances. However, this campaign has undoubtedly been a harsh lesson for Newcastle in the realities of top-level football.

Moments of glory, such as the resounding 4-1 victory over PSG in their first Champions League match at home in 20 years, have been overshadowed by crucial setbacks. The pivotal moments that defined their journey include a crucial home defeat to Dortmund, the fateful penalty in Paris, and now this loss to Milan that has left a bitter taste. These instances serve as poignant reminders that success in this realm is not easily achieved.

In the midst of it all, PSG can finally breathe a sigh of relief. For years, the Champions League has been at the heart of their ambitions, representing the pinnacle of their transformation under moneyed Qatari owners. Thanks to Newcastle's loss, they secure a spot in the knockout stages for an impressive 12th consecutive season. 

However, PSG must confront an uncomfortable truth in the post-Messi, post-Neymar era. Depending on the weaknesses of other teams to salvage their own ambitions is a precarious strategy at best. If they are to finally grasp the trophy, they must rise above such reliance. The path to glory requires more than serendipity; it demands a resolute pursuit of excellence that transcends the presence of individual big names.