Champions League: Rashford shines in Barcelona debut as Newcastle fall short
Marcus Rashford announced himself on the European stage with a commanding performance that helped Barcelona secure a crucial Champions League victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
The Manchester United loanee silenced the Tyneside faithful with two clinical strikes in the second half, marking his first Champions League goals in nearly four years.
His opening effort came via a precise header from Jules Koundé’s cross on 58 minutes, before unleashing a thunderous 20-yard drive that crashed in off the crossbar nine minutes later.
Playing under the watchful eye of England manager Thomas Tuchel, Rashford seamlessly integrated into Barcelona’s attacking framework, effectively filling the void left by injured wonderkid Lamine Yamal.
His dynamic display drew widespread praise from Spanish media, with outlets hailing the return of the “lethal” Rashford.
Newcastle’s hopes were briefly revived when Anthony Gordon found the net during seven minutes of stoppage time, but Barcelona’s defensive resolve held firm.
The decision of Eddie Howe decision to bench £69m signing Nick Woltemade in favor of deploying Gordon centrally failed to provide the cutting edge required against Hansi Flick’s well-organized visitors.
The substitution of Rashford with ten minutes remaining earned him a richly deserved standing ovation, capping a memorable European debut in Catalan colors.
