Overview

• Marcus Rashford scored his first Barcelona goals with a 58th‑minute header and a fierce long‑range strike nine minutes later to decide the game at St James' Park.
• The double marked his first Champions League goals since 2021 and secured three points in Barcelona’s league‑phase opener.
• Hansi Flick lauded Rashford’s display, saying the goals will boost his confidence and help him take the next step.
• Thomas Tuchel’s presence in the stands sharpened focus on Rashford’s England prospects after a period out of favour at Manchester United and a short loan at Aston Villa.
• Newcastle’s approach drew scrutiny as Eddie Howe started Anthony Gordon centrally and left big‑money signing Nick Woltemade on the bench, with Gordon netting a late consolation after earlier missed chances.