With Eddie Howe’s side flying to Japan this weekend to participate in the “J.League International Series”, let’s take a look at a few times in which the Toon have travelled to the continent of Asia.
From Sir Bobby to Wor Eddie, Malaysia to Saudi Arabia, the club’s Asian excursions have always played a big part in growing the branding of Newcastle United across the globe. This summer is no different.
Mags in Malaysia: 2003 FA Premier League Asia Trophy
Bobby Robson’s high-flying squad were chosen as one of three English clubs to represent the country at the inaugural Premier League Asia Trophy.
Held in July of 2003, the Magpies flew out to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, alongside Chelsea and Birmingham City. Newcastle had just come off a third-place finish under the leadership of Sir Bobby, finishing two points above fellow invitees Chelsea, and qualifying for the Champions League third qualifying round.
Newcastle would defeat Birmingham 2-1 in the semi-final stage, setting the stage for the final against Chelsea. The Blues defeated a squad representing Malaysia, 4-1, in their semi-final fixture. After a hard-fought 90 minutes of gridlocked football, Newcastle ultimately fell short of the trophy itself, being defeated 5-4 on penalties.
A trip to China in 2019
Newcastle would have to wait another 16 years before being invited to play at the Premier League Asia Trophy again, this time on Chinese soil. The format was the same, but the clubs were different. This time, the Magpies were joined by Wolverhampton Wanderers, West Ham United and Manchester City. The semi-final stage pitted Newcastle against Wolves, whilst City were matched up with the Hammers. Both fixtures took place in the city of Nanjing.
The experience on the pitch, as it was for much of this era, was very disappointing. Newcastle were brushed aside 4-0 by Wolves, who would go on to defeat Manchester City 3-2 on penalties in the final. Newcastle did however not finish…
Source link : https://www.nufcblog.co.uk/2024/07/28/toon-on-tour-a-history-of-newcastle-united-in-asia-as-mags-jet-off-to-japan/
Author : Sam MacDougall
Publish date : 2024-07-28 14:15:08
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.