Newcastle United’s upcoming Champions League clash with Benfica has already sparked controversy before a ball has even been kicked. UEFA’s appointment of Polish referee Szymon Marciniak to officiate Tuesday night’s game has left fans furious, with many still haunted by memories of his controversial decision that cost Newcastle dearly two years ago.
The tension around St James’ Park is rising, and even club legend Alan Shearer has voiced his anger over the appointment, calling it “disgusting.”
Marciniak, widely regarded as one of Europe’s top referees, last took charge of a Newcastle game during their 2023 Champions League campaign, when the Magpies faced Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes.
That match ended in heartbreak for Eddie Howe’s side, who were moments away from securing a historic victory before Marciniak awarded a highly contentious penalty deep into stoppage time.
With Newcastle leading 1-0 thanks to Alexander Isak’s first-half strike, Ousmane Dembélé’s cross struck Tino Livramento’s side before deflecting onto his arm.
Initially, the referee waved play on, but after a review from VAR official Tomasz Kwiatkowski, he was sent to the monitor. Moments later, Marciniak reversed his decision and pointed to the spot.
It was a call that shocked players, fans, and pundits alike. Kylian Mbappé stepped up to convert the penalty in the 98th minute, breaking Newcastle hearts and securing PSG a 1-1 draw that ultimately proved decisive in the group standings.
That single decision played a massive part in Newcastle’s exit from the competition, as the result denied them crucial points that could have sent them through to the knockout stages.
After the match, Eddie Howe couldn’t hide his frustration. “It wasn’t the right decision in my opinion,” he said. “There are so many things to consider in that moment the speed of the play, the deflection. When you slow it down, it looks completely different to what it was live.
The ball hit Tino’s chest first and then came up to hit his hand, which was in a natural position. His hands were by his side; he was running. That’s never a penalty.”
He wasn’t the only one who felt robbed. Newcastle icon Alan Shearer took to social media at the time, describing the decision as “disgusting” and slamming the officials for ruining what should have been one of the club’s greatest nights in Europe.
UEFA later acknowledged that the call was incorrect and confirmed that a penalty should not have been awarded. In response to the backlash, VAR official Tomasz Kwiatkowski was removed from his next scheduled match between Real Sociedad and RB Salzburg, and both he and Marciniak were sidelined for the following round of Champions League fixtures.
Now, nearly two years later, both officials are back and together again for another crucial Newcastle fixture. Understandably, fans are outraged that UEFA would assign the same pair to oversee such an important game.
The sense of injustice still lingers on Tyneside, and many supporters have taken to social media to express their disbelief and frustration, with some fearing a repeat of that infamous night in Paris.
The match against Benfica is a significant one for Newcastle. After two games in the competition, they’ve managed one win and one defeat losing 2-1 to Barcelona in their opener before bouncing back with a commanding 4-0 victory over Union SG.
Another win on Tuesday could put them in a strong position to qualify for the next stage. However, the officiating controversy threatens to overshadow what should be a thrilling European night at St James’ Park.
UEFA’s official announcement confirmed that Szymon Marciniak will be joined by an all-Polish team of officials. Tomasz Listkiewicz and Adam Kupsik will act as assistant referees, while Paweł Raczkowski serves as the fourth official.
The VAR team will once again be led by Tomasz Kwiatkowski, assisted by Spain’s Cesar Soto Grado.
| Match | Newcastle United (ENG) vs Benfica (POR) |
|---|---|
| Venue | St James’ Park |
| Date | Tuesday, 21 October 2025 |
| Kick-off | 21:00 CET |
| Referee | Szymon Marciniak (POL) |
| Assistant Referees | Tomasz Listkiewicz (POL), Adam Kupsik (POL) |
| Fourth Official | Paweł Raczkowski (POL) |
| VAR | Tomasz Kwiatkowski (POL) |
| Assistant VAR | Cesar Soto Grado (ESP) |
For Newcastle fans, the presence of Marciniak and Kwiatkowski will undoubtedly bring back bad memories. The scars from that controversial night in Paris have not healed, and many still believe that decision robbed them of progression in the Champions League.
As Alan Shearer and countless supporters have pointed out, such moments stick in the mind forever.
This time, Newcastle will be hoping history doesn’t repeat itself. The team needs focus, composure, and a fair contest as they aim to secure another vital European win.
With tensions high and all eyes on the officials, Tuesday’s clash promises to be not just a test of footballing skill, but also a test of trust in UEFA’s officiating integrity.
