Marcus Rashford marked his Champions League debut for Barcelona with a dazzling brace, leading the Catalan giants to a 2–1 victory over Newcastle United in their opening group stage clash at St James’ Park.

The 27-year-old, on loan from Manchester United, became the first English player to score for Barcelona in Europe’s premier competition—joining club legend Gary Lineker in rare company. With the match finely poised, Rashford broke the deadlock in the 58th minute, rising above Fabian Schär to nod home Jules Kounde’s pinpoint cross. Nine minutes later, he unleashed a thunderous 20-yard strike that cannoned in off the crossbar, leaving goalkeeper Nick Pope rooted to the spot.
These were Rashford’s first Champions League goals in nearly four years, and his first in a Barcelona shirt—making his return to English soil all the more poetic.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick was forced to reshuffle his attack due to injuries to Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Balde, and Gavi. Rashford started on the left flank alongside Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, and his performance vindicated Flick’s faith.

“I see what he’s capable of every day in training,” Flick said post-match. “He scored two remarkable goals today. The second one was probably better. The important thing is that he’s gaining confidence”.

Eddie Howe’s decision to bench £69m signing Nick Woltemade in favor of Anthony Gordon raised eyebrows—and ultimately backfired. Gordon struggled to influence the game until stoppage time, when he tapped in a late consolation goal to reduce the deficit.

Despite a spirited final push, Barcelona held firm to secure all three points, with Rashford receiving a standing ovation from the traveling fans when substituted in the 80th minute.

He was name Man of the Match on his European debut with Barcelona, marking his first appearance in the competition in nearly four years.

Marcus Rashford made history on the night and became:


  • First English player to score for Barcelona in the Champions League

  • First Barcelona player to score a brace on Champions League debut since Joao Felix (2023)