Barcelona kicked off their European campaign in style, securing a commanding 2-1 victory over Newcastle at St. James’ Park. Marcus Rashford was the hero of the night, scoring a brilliant brace.
Newcastle 1-2 Barcelona
Gordon 89’
Rashford 58’ 67’
St. James’ Park is one of the most intimidating grounds in the Premier League, renowned for its electrifying atmosphere and deafening roar that can rattle even the best opponents. With stands packed tight to the pitch and a crowd erupting at every dribble, pass, or crunching tackle, it’s the perfect fuel for Eddie Howe’s players. And for 45 minutes, the combination of Newcastle’s energy and their fans’ passion had Barcelona walking a tightrope. The Magpies’ relentless pressing was hard to handle, especially when Barça tried to play out from the back. Their quick recoveries led to dangerous counters, with Harvey Barnes wasting two golden chances. The second miss highlighted the brilliance of Joan García, Barça’s goalkeeper, who pulled off a stunning reflex save in the 24th minute.
But then came the storm, the shadow, and finally the lightning bolt in the night—from none other than Marcus Rashford. The Englishman produced a dazzling double. His first goal came with a powerful header off a superb cross from Jules Koundé. Just nine minutes later, Rashford struck again, unleashing a fierce shot that crashed in off the bar, leaving the keeper helpless.
Newcastle kept pushing and finally pulled one back through Anthony Gordon in the 89th minute. With seven minutes of stoppage time, the Magpies pressed desperately for an equalizer, but their comeback bid fell short as Barcelona held on.
In the absence of Lamine Yamal, Barcelona reminded everyone they still have an excellent super-sub in Marcus Rashford.