Player Ratings: Anthony Gordon shines as Newcastle United smash Benfica | OneFootball

Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Benfica: Gordon Leads Magpies’ Champions League Charge

Newcastle United produced an assured and dominant display in their 3-0 Champions League victory over Benfica, with Anthony Gordon once again the catalyst for their attacking flair. The winger struck his fourth goal of the competition and set up another as Eddie Howe’s side controlled the tempo at St James’ Park.

Gordon Sets the Tone for Newcastle United

This was a night where Newcastle United reaffirmed their European credentials. From the opening minutes, Gordon’s direct running and relentless pressing put Benfica’s defence on edge. His first-half strike, finishing off Jacob Murphy’s precise cross, showcased his composure and confidence on the continental stage.

Gordon’s assist for Harvey Barnes’ second goal further underlined his maturity and intelligence in attack. The England international’s understanding with Murphy and Bruno Guimarães gave Newcastle a sharp edge that Benfica struggled to contain.

As Howe’s men surged forward, Nick Pope also made his mark at the other end, producing two vital saves from Dodi Lukebakio and launching the move that led to Barnes’ opener with a remarkable long throw.

Composed Defence, Controlling Midfield

While much of the attention was on Newcastle United’s attacking flair, the defensive structure was equally impressive. Malick Thiaw stood out with his disciplined marking of Vangelis Pavlidis, refusing to give the Benfica striker a moment’s space. Alongside him, Sven Botman’s positioning and calm distribution ensured stability even when Benfica briefly threatened.

In midfield, Bruno Guimarães was at his creative best, threading passes with vision and precision. Teenager Lewis Miley grew into the game, showing excellent composure in tight spaces and justifying calls for more minutes. Joe Ramsey, while energetic, found it harder to influence proceedings before making way for Joelinton.

Photo: IMAGO

Benfica Outclassed by Newcastle’s Intensity

Benfica, normally known for their technical control, looked unsettled throughout. Roger Schmidt’s men struggled to escape Newcastle’s high press and rarely tested Pope beyond the first half. Lukebakio’s pace was a lone bright spark, but poor defending and erratic passing repeatedly let the Portuguese side down.

Captain Nicolás Otamendi endured a difficult evening, with both Barnes and Gordon exploiting gaps on the flanks. Benfica’s inability to retain possession or cope with Newcastle’s physicality summed up a frustrating night for the visitors.

Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Benfica

Nick Pope – 8: Exceptional distribution and crucial first-half saves.Kieran Trippier – 7: Defensively solid and dangerous from set-pieces.Malick Thiaw – 8: Dominant performance, handled Pavlidis superbly.Sven Botman – 7: Composed, controlled, and rarely flustered.Dan Burn – 6: Struggled early on but grew into the game.Bruno Guimarães – 8: Dictated midfield rhythm with quality passing.Lewis Miley – 8: Confident, energetic, and mature beyond his years.Joe Ramsey – 6: Worked hard but failed to influence play.Jacob Murphy – 7: Delivered an excellent assist and nearly scored.Nick Woltemade – 6: Held up play well, lacked chances in front of goal.Anthony Gordon – 9: Scored one, assisted another, and terrorised Benfica’s back line.

SubstitutesJoelinton – 6: Added strength and control in midfield.Harvey Barnes – 8: Two sharp finishes from the bench.Elanga – N/AOsula – N/AWillock – N/A

Manager: Eddie Howe – 8: Tactical discipline and intensity paid off with a resounding win.

Benfica Player RatingsTrubin – 6, Dedic – 5, T. Araujo – 4, Otamendi – 4, Silva – 5, Aursnes – 4, Rios – 5, Barrenechea – 5, Lukebakio – 7, Pavlidis – 4, Sudakov – 5Subs: Ivanovic (63) – 4

Man of the Match: Anthony GordonThis was the kind of performance Newcastle United fans and England supporters have been eager to see, full of drive, pace, and end product.