Marcus Rashford was the star as Barcelona beat Newcastle United 2-1 at St James’ Park in their Champions League opener on Thursday night.
The England forward, who joined Barcelona from Manchester United this summer, scored twice in nine minutes to hand the Spanish side victory and spoil Newcastle’s long-awaited return to Europe’s top stage.
Rashford first rose highest to head home Jules Kounde’s cross before firing a stunning 20-yard strike off the underside of the bar to silence the home crowd. His performance showed clear signs of revival under coach Hansi Flick, who has promised there is “more to come” from the 27-year-old. Rashford also became the first Englishman to score for Barcelona since Gary Lineker in 1989.
Newcastle started brightly, fuelled by a noisy crowd and a giant ‘Back in Black and White’ banner that recalled their famous 1997 win over Barcelona. But despite early pressure and good runs from Anthony Elanga and Anthony Gordon, the Magpies failed to take their chances. Harvey Barnes and Gordon both wasted clear openings in front of goal.
Newcastle defender Fabian Schär, who was struck on the head by a Rashford shot earlier, later failed to track the striker for his opening goal, raising concerns over whether he should have been substituted.
In the end, Barcelona’s quality proved too much, leaving Newcastle with a harsh reminder of the demands at Europe’s top level.
