UCL: Barcelona Edges Newcastle 2-1 in Champions League Opener
Barcelona dominated possession and secured a 2-1 win over Newcastle in the Champions League. Marcus Rashford scored a brace as Barcelona.
Rashford's goal not only silenced the home crowd but also showcased his impressive form against Newcastle...
Marcus Rashford stole the show with a brace, leading Barcelona to a 2-1 win over Newcastle United at St. James' Park in their UEFA Champions League opener. This victory marks Barcelona's 13th win in their last 17 meetings with English opposition in the competition, showcasing their dominance.
The match began with an extremely partisan crowd cheering on Newcastle, who swarmed all over Barcelona in the early stages. Despite the intense pressure, Barcelona's defense held strong, and the Catalans slowly began to take control of the game.
Anthony Gordon will be questioning his luck after failing to connect with Anthony Elanga's inviting cross, which would have given the Magpies an early lead. Meanwhile, Harvey Barnes narrowly avoided embarrassment when he was flagged offside after beating the offside trap.
As the match progressed, Barcelona dominated possession but struggled to cope with Newcastle's physical approach. Despite having the ball, Barça found it challenging to create clear scoring opportunities.
Anthony Elanga's impressive break and cross created a chance for Harvey Barnes to score, but the winger's effort was denied once again by Joan Garcia's impressive goalkeeping.
Pedri's impact on the game increased as he clashed with Joelinton, resulting in the Newcastle player receiving the first yellow card of the match just before the half-hour mark. Despite this, Barcelona's attacking efforts before halftime were hindered by poor finishing, with Raphinha's wayward free-kick exemplifying their struggles to create clear chances.
The game opened up in the second half, with both teams creating opportunities. Newcastle threatened from an early corner, while Marcus Rashford's powerful shot forced Fabian Schar to make a crucial block.
As the hour mark approached, Marcus Rashford scored a decisive goal, heading in Jules Kounde's cross with power and precision. The England international's goal opened his account for Barcelona and gave the visitors a crucial advantage.
Hansi Flick Barcelona's first shot on target sparked a chain reaction, prompting Eddie Howe to make four substitutions, including bringing on new striker Nick Woltemade. The tactical change didn't deter Barcelona, as Marcus Rashford's stunning individual effort thundered into the top corner just nine minutes later.
Rashford's goal not only silenced the home crowd but also showcased his impressive form against Newcastle. With this goal, Rashford now has 10 goals in 12 career starts against Newcastle, including six in seven starts at St. James' Park. Nick Pope, the opposing goalkeeper, was left rooted to the spot, unable to make a save on the impressive shot.
Rashford secures the W for Barcelona 🔒👏#UCL pic.twitter.com/n7K0dUTyS2
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 18, 2025
Eddie Howe Newcastle's Bruno Guimarães provided a glimmer of hope with a shot that Joan García expertly saved. The hosts continued to push for an equalizer, and their efforts paid off in the 90th minute when Anthony Gordon scored a late consolation goal, guiding home Jacob Murphy's cutback.
Despite Newcastle's late surge, Barcelona managed to hold on for the win, securing three crucial points in their Champions League campaign. The victory leaves Newcastle with a disappointing record, having managed only one win in five matches across all competitions this term.
Two goals ✅
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 18, 2025
Match-winner ✅
POTM ✅
Some night for Rashford 😮💨#UCL pic.twitter.com/0uqO1KNvm4
Match Statistics
Score: Newcastle United 1 - FC Barcelona 2
Goals: Rashford scored both goals for Barcelona in the 58th and 67th minutes
Possession: Barcelona dominated possession with 61%
Shots: Barcelona had 18 shots, with 4 on target
Upcoming Fixtures
- Barcelona's Next Match: Away trip to Atalanta
- Newcastle's Next Match: Host Manchester City
Barcelona's win sets the tone for their Champions League campaign, and they'll look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures.
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