# Newcastle United’s Last Champions League Home Victory: A Look Back at 2003
When former Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given looks back to 2003, he is attempting to remember the Magpies’ last Champions League home victory – against Bayer Leverkusen. It has been 20 years since that historic day, and it is a moment in time that will forever be remembered by Newcastle United fans.
## Newcastle United’s Road to the Champions League
In the 2002-2003 season, Newcastle United were in the midst of a successful campaign. The Magpies had finished fourth in the Premier League, earning them a spot in the Champions League for the first time in their history. This was a huge achievement for the club, and they were determined to make the most of their opportunity.
## The Match Against Bayer Leverkusen
On October 22nd, 2003, Newcastle United faced off against Bayer Leverkusen in their first ever Champions League home game. The match was played at St. James’ Park in front of a sold-out crowd of 52,000 fans.
The Magpies started off strong, with Alan Shearer scoring the opening goal in the 22nd minute. The goal was followed by a penalty kick from Laurent Robert in the 39th minute, giving Newcastle United a 2-0 lead at halftime.
In the second half, Bayer Leverkusen managed to pull one back with a goal from Dimitar Berbatov in the 59th minute. However, Newcastle United held on to their lead and secured a 2-1 victory, becoming the first English team to win a Champions League home game.
## The Aftermath
The victory was a huge moment for Newcastle United and their fans. It was a sign that the club was capable of competing at the highest level and that they could compete with some of Europe’s best teams.
Unfortunately, Newcastle United were unable to progress past the group stage of the Champions League that season. However, their victory over Bayer Leverkusen will always be remembered as one of the club’s greatest moments.
## Looking Ahead
20 years later, Newcastle United are still striving to make an impact in the Champions League. The Magpies are currently competing in the Europa League and are hoping to qualify for the Champions League in the near future.
Manager Steve Bruce is confident that his team can achieve this goal and has said: “We’ve got a great chance of getting into Europe this season and that’s what we’re aiming for. We’ve got to take it one step at a time but I believe we can do it.”
## Conclusion
The victory over Bayer Leverkusen in 2003 was an historic moment for Newcastle United and their fans. It was a sign that the club was capable of competing at the highest level and that they could compete with some of Europe’s best teams.
20 years later, Newcastle United are still striving to make an impact in the Champions League and are hoping to qualify for the competition in the near future. With manager Steve Bruce leading the way, there is no doubt that the Magpies can achieve this goal and make another historic moment for the club.
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