Eddie Howe Hails Newcastle's “Unique Player” After Benfica Victory
Eddie Howe praises Newcastle's “real” performance after win over Benfica. Jose Mourinho's Benfica suffer 3-0 defeat to Newcastle United in Champions League.
“I think once we scored the second goal, you sort of saw the real us, what we can be...”
Newcastle United delivered a stunning performance at St. James' Park, beating Benfica 3-0 in the Champions League. Anthony Gordon opened the scoring, showcasing his electric form, while Harvey Barnes sealed the win with a brace after coming off the bench.
The victory marked Newcastle's second consecutive win in the competition, ending a 22-year drought without back-to-back Champions League victories. Manager Eddie Howe praised his team's display, saying, “We saw the real us” after the second goal, highlighting the team's growth and potential.
Gordon's goal was a testament to Newcastle's attacking prowess, with Bruno Guimaraes and Jacob Murphy setting up the winger for a tap-in. Barnes' clinical finishes, including a brilliant solo effort off a long throw from Nick Pope, put the game out of Benfica's reach.
Harvey Barnes made a significant impact after coming on as a substitute, scoring two clinical goals that sealed Newcastle's win. His composed finishes showcased his skill and precision, leaving the opposition struggling to cope.
Newcastle bounced back impressively from their opening game defeat to Barcelona, registering consecutive wins in the Champions League. A 4-0 thrashing of Union Saint-Gilloise three weeks ago was followed by this dominant display, highlighting the team's growing momentum in the competition.
With this win, Newcastle climbed the standings, surpassing Real Madrid and Barcelona to seventh place. The victory was a testament to the team's determination and resilience, and they now look to build on this momentum in the league phase.
“I think once we scored the second goal, you sort of saw the real us, what we can be,” said manager Howe. "I thought we were excellent from that point onwards.”
Jose Mourinho has affectionately referred to himself as a “little Magpie” due to his deep respect for Sir Bobby Robson, the legendary former Newcastle manager. This term stems from his time working under Robson's guidance at Sporting Lisbon, Porto and Barcelona, where he honed his coaching skills.
Mourinho's connection with Sir Bobby runs deep, and he often pays tribute to his mentor. Before Benfica's Champions League match against Newcastle, Mourinho took a moment to visit Sir Bobby's statue at St James' Park, showcasing the enduring impact of their relationship on his career.
The boss on tonight's big win in the #UCL! 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/AEFxtlynx1
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) October 21, 2025
Under Robson's mentorship, Mourinho developed essential coaching skills, learning valuable lessons about leadership and the importance of building strong relationships with players. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped Mourinho's approach to the beautiful game.
The bond between Mourinho and Sir Bobby was built on mutual respect and trust. Sir Bobby saw potential in Mourinho and gave him opportunities to grow as a coach, and Mourinho repaid that faith with dedication and hard work.
In 1999, Sir Bobby Robson attempted to recruit Jose Mourinho as his assistant manager at Newcastle United. However, Mourinho turned down the offer, opting instead to start his managerial career at Benfica. This decision marked the beginning of an illustrious managerial journey for the Portuguese tactician.
Benfica, currently struggling in the Champions League with three losses from three games, had opportunities to take the lead in the first half but failed to capitalize on them. The team's inability to convert these chances has left them in a difficult position, looking to turn their fortunes around in the competition.
“In the first half, the result was totally undeserved. Then in the second half, with the second goal, it completely turned around, and the result is more than fair,” said Mourinho.
“It is the difference in qualities between the two teams. They are more physical, more intense, faster, and they have a bench with phenomenal players.”
Newcastle's goal came after a well-worked move, with Bruno Guimaraes playing a precise pass to Jacob Murphy, who delivered a low cross that Anthony Gordon expertly converted. The winger's finish marked his third Champions League goal in as many games this season.
The breakthrough was fitting, given Newcastle's dominant display. Dodi Lukebakio had earlier threatened with a shot that forced a brilliant save from Nick Pope, and his teammate's curling effort crashed off the post, but the hosts' superior play ultimately earned them the reward.
Newcastle's second goal was sparked by a clever long throw from Nick Pope, which Antonio Silva failed to intercept. Harvey Barnes seized the opportunity, speeding past defenders before firing a low, hard shot into the far corner.
The hosts sealed the win with a third goal seven minutes from time, as Anthony Gordon set up Barnes for a composed finish. The strike was a testament to Newcastle's clinical finishing and effective teamwork, temporarily silencing their Premier League goalscoring concerns.
Newcastle United's league form has been underwhelming, with just seven goals in eight games, leaving them 14th in the table. However, their Champions League campaign tells a different story. With games against Athletic Bilbao, Marseille, Bayer Leverkusen, and PSV still to come, they could still secure a top-eight finish and automatic qualification to the last 16.
Their final match will be a tough test, traveling to face defending champions Paris Saint-Germain, but a strong run could see them overcome this challenge. Newcastle's European form this season has been a highlight, and they're looking to build on this momentum.
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