Rashford Brace Stuns Newcastle as Barcelona Win at St James’ Park

Newcastle’s Champions League campaign began with a 2-1 defeat to Barcelona at a rocking St James’ Park, where Marcus Rashford stole the show, taking the headlines with a decisive brace. The forward struck twice on his return to England, providing the moments that sealed the result for the visitors.

Much of the build-up to Barcelona’s visit had centred on Lamine Yamal’s first appearance at St James’ Park, but the teenager was absent through injury. There was also a surprise in Eddie Howe’s selection, with Nick Woltemade left on the bench despite marking his debut with a Premier League goal last weekend.

Newcastle started with electric pressing in the first half, unsettling Barcelona and feeding off the energy of the home crowd. The opening 20 minutes were frantic and end-to-end, with Harvey Barnes missing a great opportunity, denied by a brilliant save from Joan García.

Nonetheless, Hansi Flick’s side gradually grew into the game, looking devastating on the counter. Rashford began testing his England teammate Kieran Trippier more frequently as Barcelona started to assert themselves, exploiting the space left behind Newcastle’s aggressive press.

In the second half, Barcelona struck first through a phenomenal header from Rashford, scoring his first goal for the club. He then followed up with a thunderbolt to complete his brace, leaving St James’ Park stunned. England manager Thomas Tuchel was in attendance, giving him plenty to ponder ahead of his World Cup selection.

Anthony Gordon pulled one back for Newcastle in the dying moments, but it wasn’t enough to spark a comeback. The Magpies’ intensity faded after the break, while Barcelona’s efficiency in the final third proved the difference.

Next up, Newcastle travel to Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth in the Premier League, while the La Liga champions host Getafe in their next league match.