Eddie Howe has challenged his Newcastle United players to show character and bounce back from their Premier League defeat at Brighton when they return to European action against Benfica this week.
The Magpies slipped to a 2-1 loss at the Amex Stadium, with Danny Welbeck scoring twice to deny Newcastle their first away win of the domestic campaign. Despite a well-taken equaliser from Nick Woltemade — a clever backheel that briefly swung momentum in their favour — Howe’s side left frustrated after missed chances and a costly defensive lapse.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash at St James’ Park, the Newcastle manager said he’s eager for a quick turnaround and believes the fixture provides the perfect opportunity to restore rhythm and confidence.
“Similar to after the Arsenal game, we feel like we need another game,” Howe said. “We’re delighted to play quickly and try to build momentum back in our performance.”
Howe reflects on Brighton setback
The Newcastle boss admitted the defeat was a painful one given the team’s periods of control, but emphasised the importance of learning from key moments.
“I felt reflecting on the Brighton game was mixed. There was a lot of good, but ultimately it doesn’t matter — we lost the game and we know we need to improve. When we equalised, it felt like we were the team that was going to go on and win. We had the momentum, we were front foot and aggressive.” — Eddie Howe
Newcastle’s away form has been a concern this season, with the team still searching for their first Premier League victory on the road. However, their European record offers encouragement: Howe’s men won 4-0 at Union Saint-Gilloise earlier this month, a result that has kept them firmly in contention in their Champions League group.
Newcastle eye quick response in Europe
Tuesday’s fixture against Benfica comes at a crucial point in Newcastle’s campaign. The Magpies currently sit on six points from three games and could take a significant step toward knockout qualification with another win at home.
Howe believes the squad’s mentality remains strong despite recent domestic setbacks.
“We conceded from an attack that really we shouldn’t have done,” he added. “And with such little time left, it was difficult to respond. We still had three or four opportunities that, on another day, you’d back us to take. That was a painful end to the game, but that’s what another game around the corner is for.”
Our View: Howe’s hunger for a reaction is key
In our view, Eddie Howe’s post-match comments underline his confidence in the group’s resilience. Newcastle have shown under his management that they rarely dwell on defeats, and the swift return to European competition gives them an immediate chance to reset.
The team’s energy and press have been inconsistent on the road, but at St James’ Park — with the home crowd behind them — they’ll back themselves to rediscover their sharpness.
Analyst Verdict
I think Howe’s message is exactly what Newcastle need right now. His side have been strong in Europe, and the chance to bounce back at home suits them perfectly. The Brighton defeat highlighted fine margins — not lack of quality.
As FootballPlace analyst John William says: “Newcastle looked flat in moments against Brighton, but their European form shows they can respond. Howe’s never been one to let setbacks linger.”
Key Insights
- Newcastle lost 2-1 at Brighton despite dominating phases of play
- Nick Woltemade scored the equaliser with a creative backheel
- Eddie Howe says the team must “respond quickly” ahead of Benfica clash
- Newcastle have six points from three Champions League group games
- Home advantage at St James’ Park could spark another strong European showing
What’s Next
Newcastle host Benfica at St James’ Park on Tuesday, 21 October, looking to extend their perfect European home record this season. A victory could all but secure progression to the knockout stages.
Howe will hope for a sharper edge in front of goal — and for his players to channel the frustration of the Brighton defeat into a powerful response under the lights on Tyneside.
👉 Can Newcastle turn their domestic disappointment into Champions League momentum against Benfica?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *