It was difficult to pick a man of the match but the Toon’s leading light won it at St James’ Park
Newcastle United’s starting XI vs Benfica
Newcastle United completed an outstanding Champions League performance to demolish Jose Mourinho’s Benfica 3-0 at St James’ Park.
There were star displays all over. Nick Pope pulled off an incredible assist for the second goal to stun Benfica with a throw Peter Schmeichel would have been chuffed with. No scratch that, Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady or Lamar Jackson would be dining out on for weeks with a wonderful throw up the pitch to set up sub Harvey Barnes. And there was also the Anthony Gordon show…
Howe made a major change to his central midfield area with Jacob Ramsey and teenager Lewis Miley coming in to replace Joelinton and Sandro Tonali.
After weathering a bit of a first half storm from Benfica, United grabbed a much-needed lead when Bruno Guimaraes picked out Jacob Murphy with a superb pass down the right. Jacob Murphy latched on to the ball and crossed perfectly for Gordon to sweep home the opener on 32 minutes.
At the start of the second half, Newcastle conjured up chances for Nick Woltemade, Murphy and Lewis Miley but the game reached the hour mark with only a slender lead intact. However, Pope’s long throw set up Barnes for the second and then the winger grabbed his double to seal the win.
Here’s how the players rated against Benfica:
Nick Pope 10
Some brilliant saves but what about that incredible throw to Barnes who raced on to score!
Kieran Trippier 8
Woke Newcastle stars up after a shaky start. But had the composure and guile to see this through.
Malick Thiaw 8
Ice cold and assured – even after picking up a yellow card. A snip at £35m.
Sven Botman 8
Much better after dip in standards at Brighton. Stood up to the intensity.
Dan Burn 8
The Blyth battler showed why he is winning international caps these days and heading to the World Cup. Won everything in the air.
Jacob Ramsey 6
Still early days but did not fully grasp his opportunity. Can’t be faulted for not getting a foot in. But will have better nights than this.
Lewis Miley 8
The teenager stepped up to the challenge with ease. Battled well against seasoned European campaigners. Passed with purpose and showed no fear.
Bruno Guimaraes 8
Slotted a wonderful pass down the right to get Murphy in. Then stepped up to the plate with an elite midfield showing.
Anthony Gordon 10
The Newcastle forward really is lighting up Europe right now! He may well be one of the best players on the Continent at this moment in time. A goal and an assist late in the game. Man of the match.
Jacob Murphy 7
A stuttering start, but delivered what was asked of him with an assist. Unfortunate not to get a goal himself.
Nick Woltemade 6
A little bit toothless compared to recent games. But dealt with varying levels of service.
Subs
Joelinton 7 (for Ramsey 63)
Looked a bit more awake after Brighton
Harvey Barnes 9 (for Murphy 63)
Super sub came off the bench to put the lid on it for Newcastle with a double strike!
Anthony Elanga (for Gordon 85)
William Osula (for Woltemade 85)
Joe Willock (for Guimaraes 88)
*Subs must play 15 minutes to earn a mark
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