Newcastle United celebrated a special European night at St James’ Park with a commanding 3-0 victory over Jose Mourinho’s Benfica, marking their first home Champions League win in more than two years.
It was a performance full of intensity, teamwork, and confidence, with Anthony Gordon’s first-half strike and Harvey Barnes’ second-half brace sealing all three points for Eddie Howe’s side.
The win pushed the Magpies into seventh place in the Champions League league phase table, sitting above European heavyweights like Barcelona and Real Madrid, though the latter have played fewer matches.
The scoreline suggested a comfortable evening for Newcastle, but it was a game that demanded focus and resilience. Benfica arrived in Tyneside determined to frustrate, sitting deep and trying to contain Newcastle’s energy.
Yet, Howe’s men found a way through with their trademark aggression and clever movement. Gordon’s opener changed the rhythm of the game, forcing Benfica to abandon their cautious approach and allowing Newcastle to exploit the spaces they left behind.
Gordon, who has been in stunning form this season, once again stepped up on the European stage. His first-half goal gave Newcastle control and lifted the tension in the stadium.
It was his third goal in as many Champions League matches, following earlier strikes against Barcelona and Union Saint-Gilloise.
That achievement made Gordon the first player in Newcastle’s history to score in three consecutive Champions League fixtures a record that underlines his rise as one of the most exciting young forwards in European football.
Speaking after the match, Gordon couldn’t hide his pride but remained grounded, knowing there’s still more to achieve. “It means everything to be the first Newcastle player to score in three consecutive Champions League games,” he told TNT Sports.
“But my ambition doesn’t stop there I want more. We created so many chances, so it was important to put one away to calm the nerves. I was just happy to see it hit the back of the net.”
He was also quick to praise teammate Jacob Murphy for his part in the goal, highlighting the strong understanding between them on the pitch.
“Playing with Murphy, I knew exactly what he was going to do,” Gordon added. “That goal is all about him. The timing of his pass was perfect.”
While Gordon’s finish set the tone, it was Nick Pope’s brilliance that stood out in the second half. The goalkeeper not only pulled off several key saves but also registered an assist a rare feat for a keeper in the Champions League.
His long throw set up Harvey Barnes for Newcastle’s second goal, a moment that showcased both his awareness and precision. Gordon was full of praise for his teammate, saying, “We all love Popey.
He’s one of the most popular people in the dressing room a top guy and a top keeper. He’s saved us so many times already this season, and some of his stops tonight were incredible.”
Harvey Barnes, who came off the bench to deliver a match-winning performance, shared similar sentiments after the final whistle. The winger, who missed part of last season through injury, admitted how much it means to be back performing on Europe’s biggest stage.
“Last season we weren’t in Europe, and that hurt the players,” Barnes said. “This is where we want to be. There’s nothing better than Champions League nights at St James’ Park.
When we went ahead, we knew we had to push for that second and third goal because in the past we’ve been guilty of sitting back. Tonight, we kept attacking, and the third goal killed the game off that’s when we’re at our best.”
His brace underlined Newcastle’s attacking depth and the hunger within the squad to make an impact in Europe. The chemistry between Barnes and Gordon on the flanks, supported by the creativity of Bruno Guimarães and the leadership of Kieran Trippier, showed why Newcastle have become such a difficult side to play against.
The result not only earned three crucial points but also gave Howe’s men a confidence boost as they continue to balance Champions League and Premier League commitments. The manager’s rotation paid off once again, with every substitution adding energy and purpose to Newcastle’s play.
For the players, the victory meant more than just points it was proof that Newcastle United belong among Europe’s elite once again. The noise inside St James’ Park reflected that belief, as 52,000 fans roared in appreciation of a team that continues to grow in strength and spirit.
As the Magpies turn their attention back to domestic action, facing Fulham in the Premier League this Saturday, momentum is firmly on their side.
Gordon, Barnes, Pope, and Murphy will look to carry their European form into that clash, knowing that consistency across all competitions is key to Newcastle’s ambitions this season.
For now, though, the night belonged to Newcastle United a club re-establishing itself on the grandest stage, powered by teamwork, passion, and a forward in Anthony Gordon who continues to shine brighter with every game.
