Newcastle United continued their impressive European form with a commanding 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao at St James’ Park on Wednesday, marking their third consecutive victory in the Champions League.
Dan Burn opened the scoring in style, rising highest to meet Kieran Trippier’s free-kick with a thunderous header in the 11th minute, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Joelinton sealed the win early in the second half, powering in a header from Harvey Barnes’ pinpoint cross to secure a fifth straight home triumph in all competitions.
The result offered a timely response to Newcastle’s recent domestic struggles, coming just days after a 3-1 defeat at West Ham left them languishing in 13th place in the Premier League.
Despite their inconsistency at home, Eddie Howe’s men have now claimed three wins from four in Europe, their only setback coming in the group opener against Barcelona.
With trips to Marseille and Bayer Leverkusen up next, the Magpies sit sixth in their league phase standings and are well-positioned to push for a top-eight finish, the threshold for automatic qualification to the last 16.
In contrast, Bilbao, missing key attackers Inaki and Nico Williams, offered little threat in attack.
Unai Gomez squandered an early chance, heading straight at Nick Pope, before twice hitting the woodwork as the Spanish side searched in vain for an equaliser.
Newcastle’s control grew as the match progressed, though they suffered a setback when Anthony Gordon hobbled off with a hip issue before halftime.
Still, the Premier League side’s depth showed as they maintained composure and extended their advantage through Joelinton’s well-timed strike.
Pope was called upon late to deny Nico Serrano’s long-range effort, ensuring the clean sheet and another memorable European night on Tyneside.
Now, Howe will hope Newcastle’s Champions League momentum can reignite their Premier League campaign when they travel to Brentford on Sunday.
