How Did Newcastle's Other Forwards Shine in the Champions League?

Newcastle United's recent 3-0 victory against Benfica has propelled them to seventh place in the Champions League table, showcasing their potential in European competition despite a slow start in the Premier League. This win highlighted the impressive performances of Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes, who contributed significantly to Newcastle's offensive display, which contrasts sharply with their domestic struggles.

Last updated: 18 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Newcastle United's triumph over Benfica marks a critical moment in their Champions League campaign. After three matches, they have scored an impressive eight goals, indicating a strong offensive capability that is currently not reflected in their Premier League performance. Anthony Gordon's standout contribution in this match has not only earned him accolades but has also underscored the team's ability to perform on a bigger stage, suggesting a potential turning point for the season.

Key takeaways

Newcastle United moved to seventh in the Champions League table following a 3-0 victory.
Anthony Gordon became the first Newcastle player to score in three consecutive Champions League matches.
The team has scored eight goals in three Champions League games but only seven in the Premier League.
Manager Eddie Howe emphasised the need for continued improvement despite the victory.
Newcastle displayed a strong attacking performance with 19 shots, 10 on target.

Timeline: how we got here

The following timeline outlines Newcastle United's journey in the Champions League and their recent performances:

18 September 2023: Newcastle lost to Union Saint-Gilloise, 0-1.
26 September 2023: Newcastle defeated Wolves, 1-0.
3 October 2023: Newcastle played against Arsenal, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
18 October 2023: Newcastle triumphed over Benfica, 3-0, boosting their Champions League standing.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

In their latest match, Newcastle United not only secured a convincing victory but also demonstrated a significant shift in their attacking form, particularly through the performances of Gordon and Barnes. Their ability to score consistently in the Champions League has been a bright spot, contrasting with their struggles in the Premier League, where they have been less prolific.

What was already established

Prior to this match, Newcastle's performance had been mixed, with their early Champions League games showing promise but their Premier League results falling short. The team had been reliant on individual contributions, particularly from record signing Nick Woltemade, but there were concerns about their overall goal-scoring capability in domestic fixtures.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The success of Newcastle United in European competitions can have a positive impact on local businesses and the economy, particularly in Newcastle. Increased match attendance and higher engagement from fans can lead to more spending in the area, benefiting hospitality and retail sectors.

Businesses and jobs

The club's strong performance in the Champions League can also influence sponsorship deals and commercial partnerships. Success on the field can lead to increased visibility and marketability for the team, potentially creating new jobs and opportunities within the club and its associated businesses.

Policy and regulation

As Newcastle continues to perform well in Europe, there may be implications for club governance and financial regulations. The team's success could prompt discussions on investment and compliance with UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations, as they aim to balance the need for investment with sustainable financial practices.

Numbers that matter

3: Goals scored by Newcastle against Benfica.
8: Total goals scored by Newcastle in the Champions League this season.
19: Total shots taken by Newcastle in the match against Benfica.
10: Shots on target by Newcastle during the match.
1: Number of consecutive Champions League matches scored in by Anthony Gordon.

Definitions and jargon buster

Champions League: An annual club football competition organised by UEFA, featuring the top teams from various European leagues.
Premier League: The top tier of English football, consisting of 20 clubs.
Financial Fair Play: UEFA regulations aimed at preventing clubs from spending beyond their means and ensuring financial stability.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, Newcastle needs to maintain their momentum in the Champions League while addressing their domestic form. Upcoming fixtures will be crucial to see if they can translate their European success into the Premier League.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the season progresses, Newcastle United will be looking to solidify their place in both the Champions League and the Premier League. This will require a consistent scoring effort, especially against teams in the lower half of the Premier League table where they must secure victories.

Signals to watch

Performance against lower league opposition in the Premier League.
Injury updates, particularly for key players like Gordon and Woltemade.
Upcoming matches in the Champions League and their impact on squad rotation.

Practical guidance

Do

Support the team during home matches to boost morale.
Stay informed about player performances and injuries.
Engage with local businesses benefitting from match days.

Don’t

Underestimate the importance of Champions League performance on club finances.
Ignore the potential impact of player fatigue from European competitions.
Dismiss the need for tactical adjustments in Premier League matches.

Checklist

Monitor Newcastle's league position weekly.
Track player statistics, especially goal contributions.
Follow news updates on injury reports.
Attend matches if possible, supporting the team directly.
Engage with fan forums for discussions and insights.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Newcastle's performance in the Champions League is encouraging, there are potential risks. The inconsistency in the Premier League could pose challenges, and injuries to key players may impact their squad depth. Additionally, the pressure of maintaining their Champions League spot can lead to increased scrutiny and expectations from fans and media alike.

Bottom line

Newcastle United's 3-0 victory over Benfica represents a significant boost for the club, particularly in the Champions League context. However, they must now find a way to replicate this success in the Premier League to ensure a balanced and successful season. Continued focus on their attacking play and player fitness will be crucial in the forthcoming weeks.

FAQs

How does Newcastle's Champions League performance compare to their Premier League form?

Newcastle United has scored eight goals in the Champions League while only netting seven in the Premier League this season, showcasing a stark contrast in their performances.

What impact does this victory have on Newcastle's chances in Europe?

This victory improves Newcastle's standing in the Champions League and boosts their confidence, essential for progressing further in the tournament.

Who were the standout players in the match against Benfica?

Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes were pivotal in Newcastle's victory, contributing significantly to the scoreline and demonstrating their ability to perform in high-stakes matches.