Marcus Rashford wasted no time making his mark for Barcelona, scoring twice in a 2-1 win over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park as the Champions League group stage roared into action. The England forward, on loan from Manchester United, opened his account by heading in a Jules Kounde cross just before the hour mark. He doubled Barcelona’s advantage midway through the second half with a thunderous strike into the top corner.
Anthony Gordon gave Newcastle hope with a late goal, but last season’s semi-finalists held firm to secure all three points. Afterward, Rashford reflected on the moment: “It’s an amazing experience playing for Barcelona. I’ve always been a huge admirer of the club. We just want to win as much as possible.”
How Did Manchester City Respond in Their Opening Game?
Reigning champions Manchester City also made a statement, defeating Napoli 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium. The match tilted early when Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo was sent off for hauling down Erling Haaland, who was through on goal.
That dismissal forced Napoli manager Antonio Conte into an early reshuffle, even substituting Kevin De Bruyne in just the 26th minute of his return to Manchester. Haaland eventually broke the deadlock in the second half with a header from a Phil Foden cross, his 50th Champions League goal in just 49 appearances. Jeremy Doku added City’s second to seal victory.
Pep Guardiola praised his star striker, saying, “The numbers speak for themselves and how fortunate we are to have him. Along with the two monsters of the past 15 to 20 years, Ronaldo and (Lionel) Messi, Erling is there. In terms of goals, he is unbelievable.”
Which Clubs Produced the Biggest Wins of the Night?
Eintracht Frankfurt produced the most dominant display, thrashing Galatasaray 5-1. Goals from Can Uzun, Jonathan Burkardt (twice), Ansgar Knauff, and a Davinson Sanchez own goal secured victory after the Turkish side initially went ahead.
Elsewhere, Bayer Leverkusen battled back to draw 2-2 with FC Copenhagen, salvaging a point through a late Pantelis Hatzidiakos own goal. Club Brugge stunned Monaco with a 4-1 win, powered by goals from Nicolo Tresoldi, Raphael Onyedika, Hans Vanaken, and Mamadou Diakhon.
In Portugal, Sporting Lisbon brushed aside Kazakhstan’s Kairat Almaty 4-1 despite missing a penalty, with Francisco Trincao netting twice. Real Madrid will travel to face Kairat next in what promises to be another intriguing test of the Champions League’s new campaign.
By Yockshard Enyendi