Rashford sparkles on Barcelona debut, Haaland hits UCL milestone.
Marcus Rashford’s Champions League debut for Barcelona could not have gone better. The former Manchester United forward struck twice in the second half to earn a 2-1 win over Newcastle United at St James’ Park, announcing a new chapter in style.
With Lamine Yamal and Gavi missing, Hansi Flick needed a match-winner — and Rashford delivered. He headed in the opener on 58 minutes before smashing home a superb second nine minutes later, becoming only the second Englishman after Gary Lineker to score for Barça in Europe. Anthony Gordon’s late strike set up a nervy finish, but Rashford’s brace ensured the spotlight stayed on him.
“This is a new way of football for me,” Rashford said post-match, reflecting on a night that hinted at revival after his difficult Old Trafford exit.
Haaland makes history as City overpower Napoli
Elsewhere, Erling Haaland reached 50 Champions League goals in record time, netting in his 49th match as Manchester City beat Napoli 2-0. His header from Phil Foden’s flick broke the deadlock before Jeremy Doku’s solo run sealed the result.
Napoli, reduced to 10 men after Giovanni Di Lorenzo’s early dismissal, offered little resistance. City dominated with 23 attempts and near-total control. The return of Kevin De Bruyne — now wearing Napoli’s blue under Antonio Conte — brought an emotional subplot, with City fans giving him a rousing ovation.
Frankfurt, Sporting cruise; Leverkusen scrape draw
Eintracht Frankfurt thrashed Galatasaray 5-1, powered by a blistering four-goal burst in under half an hour. Teenager Can Uzun marked his debut with a superb strike, while Jonathan Burkardt scored twice.
In Lisbon, Sporting brushed aside Kairat Almaty 4-1, Francisco Trincao netting a brace during a decisive four-minute spell.
Bayer Leverkusen escaped defeat in Copenhagen thanks to stoppage-time luck. Claudio Echeverri’s cross deflected in off Pantelis Hatzidiakos for an own goal, rescuing a 2-2 draw.
Comments are closed.