Marcus Rashford reminded Europe of his class with a dazzling two-goal burst in Barcelona’s 2–0 Champions League win over Newcastle at St James’ Park.
The 27-year-old England forward loaned from Manchester United after a stalled spell at Aston Villa had not scored in the competition for almost four years. But under new Barça boss Hansi Flick, he seized the spotlight in front of England manager Thomas Tuchel, who has kept faith in the player despite recent struggles.
After a lively first half, Rashford broke the deadlock on 58 minutes, rising to meet Jules Kounde’s cross with a powerful header beyond goalkeeper Nick Pope. Nine minutes later, he doubled the lead in stunning fashion, collecting the ball 20 yards out and rifling a fierce shot that clipped the bar before hitting the net.
Once jeered by the home crowd, Rashford left Newcastle’s supporters in silence as Barcelona’s travelling fans roared their approval. The performance not only gave Barça a winning start in Europe but also offered a timely statement that the forward’s top-level quality and his England place are far from finished.
