Newcastle United were left to rue a string of wasted opportunities as Marcus Rashford scored his first goals for Barcelona, sealing a 2-1 victory at St James’ Park in the Champions League.
On loan from Manchester United, Rashford rose to the occasion in front of England boss Thomas Tuchel, breaking the deadlock after 58 minutes with a precise header from Jules Kounde’s cross.
Nine minutes later, the 27-year-old produced a spectacular strike, smashing a 20-yard effort in off the crossbar to double Barcelona’s lead, his first Champions League goals in nearly four years.
The forward, who spent last season on loan at Aston Villa, delivered one of his finest European performances, stepping up in the absence of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
His outstanding display earned a standing ovation from Barcelona’s travelling fans when he was substituted with ten minutes remaining.
Newcastle, who had opted to start Anthony Gordon in attack over £69m signing Nick Woltemade, struggled for cutting edge until Gordon pulled one back in stoppage time. Despite late pressure, Barcelona held firm to secure three crucial points.
