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 ‘motivated’ Rashford stole the show with two strikes – nine minutes apart – of stunning quality to issue a timely reminder of his worth and Barcelona’s European credentials.
Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, became Newcastle’s tormentor when he broke open a tight encounter with two swift second-half goals.
In front of England head coach Thomas Tuchel, Rashford flashed a fine header beyond Newcastle keeper Nick Pope from Jules Kounde’s cross after 58 minutes to silence a typically feverish Tyneside atmosphere.
Rashford produced an even better moment nine minutes later when he hammered home a stunning 20-yard drive in off the crossbar past the helpless Pope. These were his first Champions League goals in almost four years.
The England striker was given a deserved standing ovation from Barcelona’s supporters when he was substituted with ten minutes left.
Newcastle were given hope of a comeback when Gordon slid home a finish at the start of seven minutes of added time, but Barcelona held out.
