Rashford hits brace as Barcelona edge Newcastle at St. James’ Park

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Barcelona kicked off their 2025-26 Champions League group stage campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win away at Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.

Marcus Rashford was the architect of Barça’s victory, netting both second-half goals to overcome a spirited home side.

The match began with Newcastle enjoying much of the early pressure. Fans inside St. James’ Park sensed opportunity, Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes both came close in the first half, only to be thwarted by imprecise finishing.

After repelling the early onslaught, Barcelona gradually wrested control of possession. Their breakthrough came in the 58th minute when Rashford rose to meet a cross from Jules Koundé, heading the ball past Nick Pope with precision.

Nine minutes later, he doubled the lead with a spectacular long-range strike, curling the ball into the top corner.

Newcastle showed resilience. In the closing moments, Gordon pulled one back in the 90th minute, but time ran out as Barcelona held firm.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised his team’s performance especially Rashford’s finishing, though he acknowledged there were moments of vulnerability.

He highlighted the importance of this result as a morale booster after a strong domestic run.
Barca Blaugranes

For Newcastle, the loss is a disappointment, though their competitiveness and pressing early on will offer some positives as the group stage progresses.

For Barcelona, securing three points on the road, as they did, sets a strong foundation for their European ambitions this season.