Barnes and Gordon Shine as Newcastle Dismantle Benfica 3–0 at St James’ Park.

Magpies hit stride in Europe as Howe’s men deliver commanding Champions League win

Newcastle United produced a performance brimming with energy, precision, and purpose as they swept aside José Mourinho’s Benfica 3–0 in front of a raucous St James’ Park crowd. Goals from Anthony Gordon and a brace from Harvey Barnes sealed back-to-back Champions League victories for the Magpies for the first time in over two decades.

Gordon opened the scoring in the first half with a calm, clinical finish from Jacob Murphy’s low cross—a goal that lifted both the tension in the stands and the tempo of Newcastle’s play. In the second half, Barnes took control of the narrative, racing onto Nick Pope’s long throw to double the lead before adding a third with a slick nutmeg finish after being set up by Gordon.

While Benfica threatened through Dodi Lukebakio—who hit the post and forced a sharp save from Pope—they lacked the composure Newcastle displayed in front of goal. Mourinho’s men were well-drilled but undone by individual errors and Newcastle’s relentless pressing.

The result not only keeps Eddie Howe’s side firmly in contention in the group but also highlights their growing maturity on the European stage. Gordon and Barnes, both yet to find league form, have become Newcastle’s European catalysts—players thriving under the bright lights of midweek competition.

For Mourinho, the night marked another disappointment at a ground that has long been unkind to him. Despite his emotional ties to the city and his respect for the late Sir Bobby Robson, his Benfica side were outclassed and outpaced.

Newcastle now turn their attention back to domestic duties, hosting Fulham in the Premier League on October 25 before a Carabao Cup clash with Tottenham on October 29. If this performance is any indication, St James’ Park could once again become one of Europe’s most intimidating fortresses.v