Barcelona claims a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Newcastle United

Barcelona claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on Thursday night in the opening round of this season’s UEFA Champions League group phase, thanks to a Marcus Rashford brace that silenced the home crowd.

The Premier League hosts started brightly and created the early chances. Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes both forced saves from Barcelona goalkeeper Joan García before the break, but Newcastle’s finishing touch deserted them in key moments. The first half ended goalless, with Newcastle enjoying the better chances but unable to make them count.

Barcelona began to take control after the interval, with their midfield orchestrating longer periods of possession. Just before the hour mark, full-back Jules Koundé lofted in a pinpoint cross, allowing Rashford to head home the opener in the 58th minute. Nine minutes later, Rashford doubled his tally with a stunning long-range strike off the underside of the bar, placing Barcelona firmly in control.

Newcastle pressed desperately in the final stages, and their efforts were rewarded in the 90th minute when Anthony Gordon converted Jacob Murphy’s low cross. However, it proved to be only a consolation, as Barcelona held on for three valuable points in their group campaign.

The match saw Rashford shine, scoring both goals to become the first English player in over three decades to net a Champions League brace for the Catalans. Newcastle, meanwhile, were left to rue their missed chances in a high-quality European contest.

Follow us on Tiktok for more football content