Newcastle United Thrash Benfica 3-0 in Champions League Group Stage

Newcastle United secured a crucial 3-0 victory against Benfica in the UEFA Champions League, with key performances from Anthony Gordon, who scored for the third consecutive match, and Harvey Barnes, who scored twice after being brought on as a substitute. The match featured a strong tactical approach from Newcastle, capitalizing on counterattacks and pace against the Benfica full-backs, with Nick Pope notably assisting one of the goals through a long throw. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe praised his team's patience and quality, emphasizing that the squad is still finding its rhythm but showing promise for what they can achieve this season. The game was competitive, with Benfica creating some chances, including a shot that hit the post, but Newcastle's defense and goalkeeping held firm. Both players and management expressed optimism about the squad's potential and the importance of maintaining attacking football to build on this result. Despite some refereeing controversies and Benfica's attempts to challenge the result, Newcastle demonstrated their strength and resilience on home turf at St James' Park.