Newcastle United fans woke up on Wednesday morning with smiles all around after seeing a beautiful sight the Champions League table. It’s been a long time since St James’ Park witnessed nights like this, but under Eddie Howe, the Magpies are not only competing with Europe’s elite, they’re thriving.
The Champions League standings have never looked sweeter for Newcastle supporters, and the journey so far has been nothing short of thrilling.
It all began with a tough opening test against Barcelona, the reigning La Liga champions and last season’s Champions League semi-finalists. Despite a brave and energetic performance at St James’ Park, Newcastle were unfortunate to fall to a narrow 2-1 defeat.
That result didn’t reflect the effort or quality on display, and fans were quick to see it as a sign of how far the team had come. The response, however, was even more impressive.
Next came a trip to Belgium to face the reigning domestic champions, Union Saint-Gilloise, in a fixture that could have been tricky.
But Newcastle dominated from start to finish, producing a commanding performance that ended 4-0 in their favour. It was a display full of confidence, sharpness, and attacking flair a message to the rest of Europe that Howe’s men meant business.
Then came Tuesday night’s clash with Jose Mourinho’s Benfica at St James’ Park a night that reminded fans of the great European evenings of old. From start to finish, Newcastle were in control.
Anthony Gordon opened the scoring in the first half with his third Champions League goal in as many games, while Harvey Barnes came off the bench to add two more in the second half, sealing a 3-0 victory.
In truth, the scoreline could have been even higher given the chances created.
The statistics told the story of dominance. Newcastle enjoyed 52% possession compared to Benfica’s 48%, registered 19 total shots to their opponent’s seven, and had 10 efforts on target while the visitors managed just two.
The Magpies earned 12 corners and made 38 touches in the opposition box a clear sign of the attacking intent that has defined Howe’s side this season.
That result lifted Newcastle into 7th place in the overall Champions League league-phase standings, a position that would see them automatically qualify for the last 16 knockout round.
The new format means the top eight teams progress directly, while those placed 9th to 24th face two-legged playoffs to decide the remaining eight spots.
With three of their eight group-stage fixtures completed, Newcastle are in a strong position and confidence is growing with every match.
Here’s how the match looked in numbers:
| Statistic | Newcastle United | Benfica |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 52% | 48% |
| Total Shots | 19 | 7 |
| Shots on Target | 10 | 2 |
| Corners | 12 | 8 |
| Touches in Box | 38 | 12 |
Goal scorers: Anthony Gordon (32’), Harvey Barnes (70’, 83’)
It was a true team effort with every player contributing from Nick Pope’s incredible saves and long-range assist to Barnes’ ruthless finishing and Gordon’s tireless energy.
The lineup of Pope, Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Burn, Bruno, Ramsey, Miley, Gordon, Woltemade, and Murphy worked tirelessly to secure the win, with Joelinton, Barnes, Elanga, Osula, and Willock all making key contributions from the bench.
Unused substitutes included Thompson, Ramsdale, Schar, Tonali, Krafth, and Alex Murphy a reminder of the strength and depth in Howe’s squad.
Looking ahead, Newcastle’s next European challenge will be at home to Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday, November 5.
Another win there could move them even closer to securing their place in the knockout stages and continuing this remarkable Champions League journey.
For now, fans can take a moment to enjoy the view seventh in Europe, playing exciting football, and proving that St James’ Park belongs once again among the continent’s best. It’s a sweet sight indeed for Newcastle United supporters waking up on this fine Wednesday morning.
