The England forward, on loan from Manchester United, struck in the 58th and 67th minutes to register his first goals for the Catalan giants since joining in July. Anthony Gordon’s late strike for Newcastle reduced the deficit, but Barcelona held on to secure three points in their group stage opener.
Rashford’s performance was his first Champions League brace since 2021 and added to his record of tormenting Newcastle, against whom he has now scored seven career goals.
“If there were any doubts about Marcus, tonight he answered them,” Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said after the match. “He showed hunger, intelligence, and quality in front of goal. We believe this is the start of something special for him.”
Rashford, who fell out of favour at Manchester United under manager Ruben Amorim last season, looked revitalized. His first goal came from a powerful header off Jules Kounde’s cross, before doubling the lead with a thunderous top-corner strike from 25 yards.
The night carried echoes of history for Newcastle fans, with Colombian legend Faustino Asprilla in attendance 28 years after his iconic hat-trick against Barcelona in 1997. However, Eddie Howe’s side could not replicate that magic, despite Gordon’s late effort from Jacob Murphy’s assist.
Barcelona, five-time European champions, last lifted the trophy in 2015 and are aiming to return to the summit after last year’s semi-final exit to Inter Milan. Rashford’s bright start could prove crucial in their campaign.
Newcastle, meanwhile, were left to rue missed chances, including Joelinton’s close-range header early in the second half, as their first Champions League outing of the season ended in disappointment.
“We had our moments, but at this level you must take your chances,” Howe admitted. “Rashford was the difference tonight.”
