Newcastle star left in awe of Barcelona after 1-2 defeat – ‘The best I have ever faced’ | OneFootball

Barcelona kicked off their 2025/26 UEFA Champions League in some style on Thursday night.

In the demanding setting of St. James’ Park, against a Newcastle United side backed by their fans, Hansi Flick’s team came away with a 2-1 win.

Despite there being some nervy moments early on, Barcelona settled into the game and were simply top-class once they got into their zone, especially in the second half.

Two goals from Marcus Rashford put them on the path to a win, and while a late Anthony Gordon strike gave the hosts a glimmer of hope of a comeback, the Catalans held on for the win.

Gordon awestruck by Barcelona

Speaking to the media after the game, Newcastle’s goalscorer Gordon admitted the impression Barcelona had left went beyond an ordinary group stage fixture.

Gordon scored Newcastle’s only goal vs Barcelona. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

“We’re not used to playing against players who keep the ball like that. We’ve faced Chelsea and City before, but they were never like that,” admitted Gordon.

The winger acknowledged that with Barcelona two goals up, the task became overwhelming for the hosts.

“With Barcelona 2-0 up, it’s always going to be more difficult, because they maintain possession so well….”

Although he gave Newcastle brief hope with his goal, Gordon conceded that the effort had taken its toll: “We were exhausted in the last five minutes.”

Barcelona had worn down their opponents with patience and precise circulation of the ball. And Gordon was unequivocal in his assessment of this Barça side.

“They are the best I have ever faced in this sport,” he concluded.

Source: SPORT