Newcastle United continued their impressive Champions League campaign with a dominant 3-0 victory over Benfica at St James’ Park.
The Magpies delivered a performance filled with energy, precision, and confidence as they secured back-to-back wins in Europe’s top competition. It was a night that showcased Eddie Howe’s tactical depth, with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes stealing the show in front of an electric home crowd.
Eddie Howe made three changes to the side that faced Brighton, handing starts to Lewis Miley, Jacob Ramsey, and Gordon. The decision paid off handsomely, as the new faces brought fresh energy to the team.
The atmosphere at St James’ Park was electric from kick-off, and Newcastle immediately took control. Their pressing and passing carved open Benfica’s defence, and it didn’t take long before they found their rhythm.
In the 32nd minute, Anthony Gordon broke the deadlock. A quick, sharp move saw Jacob Murphy whip in a teasing cross that found Gordon at the back post, who made no mistake in guiding it into the net.
The goal rewarded Newcastle’s dominance and gave the home side the boost they needed. Benfica tried to respond through Dodi Lukebakio, but Nick Pope stood firm, making two crucial saves in the first half to protect the lead.
After the interval, Newcastle maintained their intensity. Sven Botman and Malick Thiaw kept things solid at the back, while Bruno Guimarães pulled the strings in midfield, showing his trademark vision and composure.
Lewis Miley, despite a shaky start, grew into the game and linked up well with Bruno, dictating play in the centre of the park.
The turning point came in the 71st minute when Nick Pope launched a brilliant long throw that caught Benfica’s defence off guard. Harvey Barnes, who had only been on the pitch for a few minutes, latched onto the ball, raced through, and finished calmly into the bottom corner.
It was a moment of quick thinking and flawless execution from goalkeeper to goal scorer in seconds.
With the match firmly in Newcastle’s hands, they didn’t stop there. Anthony Gordon, who was sensational all night, turned provider in the 83rd minute.
A clever one-two with Barnes split Benfica’s backline open, and Barnes coolly slotted home his second of the night to seal the win. The crowd erupted as Newcastle’s European dream continued to gather momentum.
Every player on the pitch played their part. Nick Pope, despite some shaky kicking early on, redeemed himself with brilliant saves and an assist that set up the second goal.
Kieran Trippier was solid on both ends, delivering dangerous crosses and marshalling the defence. Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman were a wall at the back, winning every duel and keeping Benfica’s forwards quiet.
In midfield, Lewis Miley impressed with maturity beyond his years, while Bruno Guimarães was simply sublime, nearly scoring himself and orchestrating the play with class.
Jacob Ramsey showed flashes of brilliance, although he was replaced by Joelinton midway through the second half, who brought fresh energy and physicality.
Jacob Murphy, with three shots and an assist, provided width and pace, stretching Benfica’s defence all night.
Up front, Anthony Gordon was unplayable. His goal, assist, and tireless pressing set the tone for Newcastle’s attacking rhythm. Few defenders could cope with his speed and aggression.
New signing Nick Woltemade also showed good movement and link-up play, contributing to the third goal with a neat exchange.
Harvey Barnes was undoubtedly the super-sub of the night. Two chances, two goals clinical, composed, and confident. His finishing touch and intelligent runs made all the difference when Benfica began to tire.
The chemistry between him and Gordon hinted at something special developing in Newcastle’s attacking setup.
Here’s a summary of the standout player ratings for Newcastle United:
| Player | Rating | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Nick Pope | 8 | Two vital saves and an assist; solid performance |
| Kieran Trippier | 7 | Reliable defensively and dangerous going forward |
| Malick Thiaw | 7 | Strong, composed, and vital in build-up play |
| Sven Botman | 7 | Rock-solid at the back |
| Lewis Miley | 7.5 | Grew into the game and showed maturity |
| Bruno Guimarães | 8 | Controlled midfield; almost scored |
| Jacob Murphy | 8 | Direct, energetic, and assisted the opener |
| Anthony Gordon | 10 | Goal, assist, and tireless effort — unstoppable |
| Harvey Barnes | 9 | Two goals off the bench; clinical and composed |
| Joelinton | 7 | Added strength and presence late on |
It was a night to remember at St James’ Park one that reminded everyone of the magic of European nights on Tyneside. Newcastle United looked fearless, fluid, and full of belief.
With performances like this, Eddie Howe’s men are not just competing; they are beginning to look like a side capable of going deep into the Champions League. The roar of the crowd said it all this is a team growing in confidence, unity, and quality.
