Eddie Howe conceded that Newcastle’s controversial last-minute draw at Paris Saint-Germain has left him feeling deflated. The Magpies were on the verge of a historic Champions League win at the Parc des Princes, but a contentious late penalty, given against them, denied them victory.
Tino Livramento was harshly judged to have handled the ball after a deflection off his chest onto his arm from Ousmane Dembele’s cross. Kylian Mbappe converted the penalty, nullifying Alexander Isak’s first-half goal and undoing Newcastle’s spirited display in the French capital.
Expressing his emotions to TNT Sports, Howe said, “I’m still grappling with it. I feel really flat, but at the same time pleased with the players’ commitment and execution today. We ran out of luck at the end, and I didn’t think it was a penalty.”
He went on to critique the decision, emphasizing the speed of the ball and disputing the legitimacy of the penalty, given the initial contact with Livramento’s chest. Despite his frustration, Howe acknowledged the players’ effort and expressed disappointment with the turn of events in an otherwise strong performance.
