Where to watch Qarabag v Newcastle in the Champions League play-off — match time and viewing options
Newcastle head to Baku for the first leg of their Champions League play-off tie with Qarabag on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026. Here’s how fans in the United States and around the world can follow the action, plus practical guidance for supporters travelling to the match.
Kickoff time and how to follow live
The match kicks off at 12: 45pm ET on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026. That converts from the local Baku start time of 9: 45pm and the UK start time of 5: 45pm. Fans should double-check listings for pre-match build-up and the precise window for live coverage in their time zone.
There are three main ways to follow the game live: live television coverage, official streaming services tied to domestic broadcast rights, and live audio commentary. If you rely on televised coverage, confirm whether the fixture is included in your sports package and whether a dedicated pre-match show will be available. Streaming options often require a subscription and may be geo-restricted; use the official streaming service available in your territory and check device compatibility in advance. For those preferring audio, radio and club audio feeds typically offer live commentary and are useful when video access is limited.
Practical tips for overseas viewers and travellers
Fans travelling to Baku should note several important travel and matchday details. A valid passport is required and a visa must be obtained prior to travel; allow at least a week for processing. Travel insurance is advised. The local currency is the Manat (AZN); card and contactless payments are widely accepted, but it’s sensible to carry a small amount of local cash for incidental purchases.
From the airport, expect roughly a 20–30 minute taxi transfer into the town centre; buses are cheaper but can take 30–40 minutes. Many visitors rely on ride-hailing apps on arrival — have a local app or transport plan ready before you land. If using the metro, purchase and top up the local transit card in advance; it is required even for single trips and is the most convenient way to reach central locations. The nearest metro stop to the stadium for many fans will put you a short walk from the away turnstiles.
On matchday, supporters are asked to meet at Shahriyar Park at 7: 00pm for group movement towards the stadium. Away-ticket holders will be directed to Gate B on arrival at the stadium perimeter; be prepared for a full body search at this gate and a potential secondary search by local police. Stewards working the event will generally be able to assist in English, and club staff will be on hand to support travelling supporters. Kiosks and toilet facilities are available before you reach the turnstiles, but queues can form — arrive early to avoid missing kick-off.
If you can’t get a TV or stream
If live video access is unavailable in your area, consider live radio commentary, club updates on social channels, or minute-by-minute text coverage from match correspondents. Many newsrooms provide post-match highlights packages and analysis shortly after the final whistle; these are useful for catching up if you miss the live action. For fans travelling to the ground without tickets, official stadium big screens, fan zones in the city, and licensed viewing venues often show matches, but availability varies — plan ahead.
Whichever route you choose to watch, remember the kickoff time in Eastern Time: 12: 45pm ET on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026. Check your chosen provider’s schedule earlier in the day for any late adjustments and allow extra time if you are travelling in or around the stadium on matchday.
