Newcastle were punished for a series of missed chances as Manchester United-loanee Marcus Rashford scored his first goals in Barcelona colours to secure a 2-1 win at St James’ Park.
On an occasion befitting of a Champions League opener, Eddie Howe’s side generated better chances and a sustained threat, but it was Rashford – the first Englishman since 1989 to score in Europe for Barcelona – who was decisive.
Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes were both guilty of wastefulness, failing to convert any of Anthony Elanga’s numerous deliveries, before Rashford stole the show with two strikes – nine minutes apart – of stunning quality to issue a timely reminder of his worth and Barcelona’s credentials.
Rashford’s second strike was a stunner, rifled into the top corner
A precision header from Jules Kounde’s cross was followed up by an exquisite hit from range, dipping and swerving and finding the net off the underside of the crossbar – with England boss Thomas Tuchel also in attendance to witness a Rashford masterclass first hand.
It was something of a statement. The marksman enjoyed an electric second half, scoring twice from an xG value of just 0.37, and although Gordon finally converted Newcastle’s momentum into a consolation goal late on, it was not enough to rescue a point.
More to follow.
