Barcelona have not made things their own way against Newcastle United, but they have managed to get themselves into the lead in the second half of their Champions League opener at St James’ Park.

The hosts have been aggressive in their play, which has caught Barcelona cold at times. Newcastle could have opened the scoring on multiple occasions during the first half, with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes both having chances – and they have now been made to pay.

Marcus Rashford has been a bright spark for Barcelona, and he is the one that has scored the opening goal of the night. Jules Kounde’s cross from the right landed perfectly on his head, and on his return to England following his summer move from Manchester United, he found the back of Nick Pope’s net.

For the first time since October 2021, Marcus Rashford scores in the Champions League! 👏

📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) September 18, 2025

🚨🇪🇺 RASHFORD OPENS THE SCORING FOR BARCELONA !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Newcastle 0-1 Barcelona.

— Tekkers Foot (@tekkersfoot) September 18, 2025

Barcelona have something to hold on to now

It has been difficult for Barcelona to create chances in attack without the injured Lamine Yamal, but Rashford has been their best hope in this regard – so it is perhaps no surprise that the goal has come from him. Hansi Flick’s side now have something to hold on to, and they will be seeking to see this one out.