Newcastle United produced a sensational Champions League performance at St James’ Park, sweeping aside Jose Mourinho’s Benfica with a 3-0 victory that will live long in the memory.
It was the kind of European night that defines a team’s character fast, fearless, and full of belief. The Magpies looked sharp from start to finish, and while several players stood out, two names in particular stole the show with near-perfect performances.
The game started with Newcastle dominating possession but facing a few early scares as Benfica tried to impose themselves physically.
Yet, as the first half unfolded, Eddie Howe’s men found their rhythm. Bruno Guimaraes, pulling the strings in midfield, spotted Jacob Murphy’s clever run down the right and delivered a precise pass.
Murphy took a perfect first touch and whipped in a low cross that Anthony Gordon timed beautifully to slot home on 32 minutes. That goal was pure class simple, sharp, and decisive.
Gordon’s form in Europe has been nothing short of electric, and he once again proved why many now see him as one of the best young forwards on the continent.
His pace, awareness, and confidence made the difference when it mattered most. By the time the final whistle blew, Gordon had a goal and an assist to his name, capping another brilliant performance in black and white.
The second half brought even more magic, with Newcastle’s momentum carrying them forward. The turning point came when Nick Pope, who had already made several big saves, produced a moment of sheer brilliance.
Spotting Harvey Barnes sprinting into space, Pope launched an astonishing 65-yard throw a move that caught Benfica completely off guard. Barnes controlled it with precision, darted toward goal, and finished calmly past the keeper. The home crowd erupted, and the entire Newcastle bench leapt in celebration.
It was the kind of assist you’d expect from a world-class quarterback rather than a goalkeeper, and Pope’s awareness summed up his all-round quality. Later, Barnes doubled his tally, sealing the victory and ensuring Newcastle moved further up the Champions League league phase table.
Across the pitch, every player played their part, but a few stood out more than others. Nick Pope was commanding, making vital saves and delivering that unbelievable assist that changed the game a performance worthy of a perfect 10.
Anthony Gordon, the man of the match, was simply unstoppable, tormenting defenders all night with his pace and decision-making. Bruno Guimaraes showed his class with clever passes and constant control in midfield. Lewis Miley, despite his young age, looked composed and confident, never shying away from a challenge.
Defensively, Sven Botman and Malick Thiaw were solid, cutting out danger with assurance and calmness. Dan Burn once again showed why he’s earned international recognition, winning aerial duels and leading from the back.
Kieran Trippier, as always, was composed and vocal, guiding his teammates and providing balance on the right flank.
Jacob Murphy, though slightly inconsistent early on, delivered when it mattered with his assist for Gordon’s opener. Nick Woltemade couldn’t quite find his rhythm but still worked hard off the ball.
From the bench, Joelinton brought fresh energy and physicality, while Harvey Barnes’ brace made him the perfect super sub.
Here’s how the players rated in that memorable 3-0 win over Benfica:
Nick Pope – 10: Outstanding in every sense. World-class saves and an assist that will be replayed for years.
Kieran Trippier – 8: Composed and experienced, a real leader on the pitch.
Malick Thiaw – 8: Calm, confident, and handled the pressure well even after being booked.
Sven Botman – 8: Rock solid after a slight dip in form. Commanding in defence.
Dan Burn – 8: Dominant in the air and full of heart. A warrior’s performance.
Jacob Ramsey – 6: A quieter outing but showed effort. His time will come.
Lewis Miley – 8: Mature beyond his years. Confident passing and great positioning.
Bruno Guimaraes – 8: Controlled the tempo and created the opener with a perfect pass.
Anthony Gordon – 10: A superstar in the making. A goal, an assist, and pure brilliance throughout.
Jacob Murphy – 7: Delivered a vital assist and worked tirelessly down the wing.
Nick Woltemade – 6: Lacked a finishing touch but put in a strong shift.
Joelinton – 7 (sub): Added physicality and helped see out the game.
Harvey Barnes – 9 (sub): Came on to score twice — a dream cameo.
Newcastle’s victory was a true team effort, a statement that they belong among Europe’s best. The fans inside St James’ Park witnessed a special night where passion, quality, and teamwork came together perfectly. For Eddie Howe and his players, this was not just three points — it was another step in proving that Newcastle United are ready to take on Europe’s elite.
