Rashford Strikes Twice as Barcelona Edge Newcastle 2-1

Barcelona's British forward #14 Marcus Rashford controls the ball during the UEFA Champions League first round football match between Newcastle United FC and FC Barcelona at St James' Park in London, on September 18, 2025. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP)

Marcus Rashford marked his return to England with a spectacular brace as Barcelona earned a 2-1 victory over Newcastle United in their UEFA Champions League group-stage opener at St James’ Park on Thursday night.

The 27-year-old struck twice in nine minutes during the second half to secure all three points for Hansi Flick’s side and open his personal account for the Catalan giants following his summer loan move from Manchester United.

Rashford Inspires Barcelona Comeback

Barcelona endured a sluggish first half as Newcastle pressed high and created the better chances. Harvey Barnes saw a fierce strike pushed away by Joan Garcia, while Joelinton missed a clear header early in the second period.

But the breakthrough arrived in the 58th minute when Jules Kounde’s cross found Rashford, who escaped Fabian Schar’s marking to power a header past Nick Pope. Nine minutes later, the forward doubled Barcelona’s advantage with a moment of brilliance, gliding past Sandro Tonali before unleashing a thunderous strike into the top corner from 25 yards.

Newcastle rallied late, and Anthony Gordon pulled one back in the 90th minute from Jacob Murphy’s cross, but Barcelona held firm to begin their European campaign with a crucial away win.

A Statement Performance

Rashford’s display was his first Champions League goal haul since 2021 and a reminder of the talent that once made him Manchester United’s crown jewel. The England international fell out of favour at Old Trafford under Ruben Amorim last season, spending a brief loan spell at Aston Villa before heading to Spain in July.

Barcelona’s Brazilian forward #11 Raphinha jumps to head the ball in an attempt to score during the UEFA Champions League first round football match between Newcastle United FC and FC Barcelona at St James’ Park in London, on September 18, 2025. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP)

Barcelona, five-time European champions, are looking to return to the final for the first time since 2015 after falling to Inter Milan in last season’s semi-finals. With three wins in four La Liga matches already this term, Flick’s men appear well placed to mount a serious challenge.

For Newcastle, the result was a setback on their return to the Champions League after last season’s group-stage exit. Despite a spirited performance, Eddie Howe’s side must regroup quickly ahead of their next fixture if they hope to advance.