Marcus Rashford scored twice to lead Barcelona past Newcastle 2-1 in the Champions League, overshadowing Eddie Howe’s selection gamble.
Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, struck twice in the second half to hand Barcelona a 2-1 Champions League win over Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Wednesday night.
In front of England head coach Thomas Tuchel, Rashford opened the scoring after 58 minutes, steering in a fine header from Jules Kounde’s cross to silence the raucous home crowd. Nine minutes later, the England striker produced a spectacular 20-yard drive that thundered in off the crossbar past Nick Pope for his first Champions League goals in nearly four years.
Barcelona, missing teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal through injury, dominated as Rashford flourished alongside their array of attacking options. He earned a standing ovation when substituted with ten minutes left.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe surprised fans by leaving £69m summer signing Nick Woltemade on the bench, opting instead to start Anthony Gordon centrally. Gordon struggled to impact the game but gave Newcastle late hope by scoring in added time, though Barcelona held firm.
The Toon Army roared their side on, with their best chance falling to Harvey Barnes in the first half, only for his finish to let him down. Former Newcastle favourite Tino Asprilla, present in the stands, evoked memories of his famous 1997 hat-trick against Barcelona, but this night belonged to Rashford.
Newcastle’s spirited effort was warmly applauded at the final whistle, though questions linger over Howe’s selection choices.