Marcus Rashford reminded Manchester United of his enduring quality with a decisive performance, firing a brace to hand Barcelona a 2-1 Champions League win over Newcastle at St. James’ Park.
The 27-year-old, on loan from Old Trafford, struck twice in the second half, first with a precise header on 58 minutes, then with a thunderous drive off the underside of the bar, to put the Catalans firmly in control in front of England manager Thomas Tuchel.
Rashford had also scored against the Magpies in the 2023 Carabao Cup final, and once again proved to be their tormentor.
Eddie Howe’s side had started brightly, pressing high and unsettling Barca’s back line, with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes both spurning golden opportunities in the opening half.
Elanga’s pace repeatedly stretched the visitors, while Nick Pope and Fabian Schär worked hard to keep Lewandowski quiet at the other end.
After the break, Joelinton glanced a header wide and Tonali tested Joan García, but Newcastle’s profligacy came back to haunt them when Jules Koundé’s cross picked out Rashford for the opener.
Nine minutes later, the England forward doubled the advantage with a strike of sheer class that silenced the home crowd.
The Magpies pushed for a response and were eventually rewarded in the dying moments, as Gordon tucked home Jacob Murphy’s delivery to set up a nervy finish.
However, Barcelona held on, denying Newcastle a repeat of their famous Faustino Asprilla-inspired triumph over the Spaniards nearly three decades ago.
