Newcastle United impress in win over Benfica
Newcastle United 3 - 0 Benfica
Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon inspired Newcastle United to a convincing Champions League win over José Mourinho’s Benfica.
Gordon, left unmarked at the far post, gave Newcastle the lead in the first half, calmly steering Jacob Murphy’s cross beyond goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin. It was his fourth goal in just three Champions League outings and provided the platform for Eddie Howe’s side to press on after the interval.
Barnes extended the advantage with a superb breakaway goal after Nick Pope launched a remarkable 65-yard throw down the right. Antonio Silva misjudged the bounce, allowing Barnes to sprint through and finish off the inside of the post.
The winger added his second late on, linking neatly with Gordon before slotting through Trubin’s legs to complete the victory.
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| Gordon celebrates |
Benfica had their chances earlier in the contest, with Dodi Lukebakio twice going close. Pope produced a sharp save at his near post before the Belgian clipped the upright with a curling effort from distance.
Newcastle’s composure in front of goal ultimately proved the difference, sealing consecutive Champions League wins for the first time since 2003.
More St James’ misery for Mourinho
José Mourinho’s struggles on Tyneside continued. The Portuguese, who has managed only three wins at St James’ Park in all competitions, cut a reflective figure before kick-off, taking in the atmosphere of a ground he has long held affection for because of his bond with the late Sir Bobby Robson.
Interesting post match reaction from Mourinhopic.twitter.com/4SqfH1yK9s
— European Super Football (@ESFootballNews) October 22, 2025
Five minutes before the start, he appeared from the tunnel to the sound of Newcastle fans singing Hey Jude, watching the flags wave before greeting Eddie Howe with a firm handshake. Yet, as Howe had warned beforehand, the friendliness stopped once the match began, and that proved the case.
Mourinho looked content early on as his side slowed the tempo, packed men behind the ball and broke up Newcastle’s rhythm with a series of fouls. The crowd’s frustration grew when Enzo Barrenechea stayed down after a firm Kieran Trippier challenge.
Still, Benfica were not simply defending. They created the better chances before Newcastle’s opener, with Dodi Lukebakio forcing Nick Pope into a strong save before half-time. But while Mourinho’s side failed to take theirs, Newcastle were far more clinical in front of goal.
