Barcelona opened their Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on Thursday night.
The atmosphere was electric as the Magpies faithful dreamed of recreating the magic of 1997, when Newcastle famously stunned Barça. But history repeated itself in a less favorable way for the hosts, as Hansi Flick’s side extended their strong record over Premier League opposition. Here are the three biggest takeaways from the clash on Tyneside
Marcus Rashford Delivers When It Matters
It was very much a tale of two halves for Marcus Rashford.
On loan from Manchester United, the forward looked lethargic and disconnected before the break, with loose passing and minimal defensive work leaving him vulnerable to early substitution.
But football is often about moments — and Rashford produced them in style. With England coach Thomas Tuchel watching on, he buried a powerful header past Nick Pope before unleashing a thunderous strike that cannoned in off the bar. Two goals, both clinical, silenced the home crowd and secured his first decisive contribution for Barça.
Fermin Lopez Puts the Team First
Known for his surging runs and eye for goal, Fermin Lopez had to adopt a different role against Newcastle’s combative midfield.
The 22-year-old rarely found space to showcase his attacking instincts and wasted the one half-chance that came his way. Yet his tireless pressing, defensive work, and willingness to sacrifice personal glory for the team stood out.
It was not a headline-making performance, but one that showed Flick can trust him to adapt when the game requires grit over flair.
Joan Garcia Shines on Champions League Debut
If Rashford’s goals won it, Joan Garcia’s brilliance in goal kept Barça in the contest.
The young shot-stopper was sensational on his Champions League debut, pulling off acrobatic saves that denied Newcastle’s front line time and again. His reflexes and positioning frustrated Eddie Howe’s men throughout, proving why he has quickly become one of Barça’s most reliable recent signings.
Without Garcia’s interventions, the night could have looked very different for the Catalans.
Final Word
Barcelona weren’t at their dazzling best, but they showed maturity, resilience, and found their match-winners when it counted. Rashford’s brace and Garcia’s heroics underlined the squad’s depth, while Lopez’s work ethic offered balance.
For Newcastle, it was a night of missed opportunities, but their aggressive, high-tempo football will trouble others in this group.
