Night of shining debuts
Amazing Champions League debuts for Marcus Rashford and Joan Garcia, the first in a Barça shirt, and the second for any club in Europe's premier club competition. In a 2–1 win at Newcastle, the two newcomers were the standout figures, the English strikerfor a match-winning brace, and the Catalan goalkeeper for a string of superlative saves.
Big brace
A prophet in his own land. The England international opened his Barça account in style, nodding home a precise Jules Kounde cross before unleashing a thunderbolt from outside the box that crashed in off the bar. Two goals, one man-of-the-match display, and a flying start to life in Europe with his new club.
Hansi Flick’s side had struggled to break through early on, but Rashford’s ruthless finishing turned half-chances into decisive moments. By the end, Newcastle were reeling, and Barça had their perfect opening statement.
Marvellous Joan Garcia
Not to be outshone, summer signing Joan Garcia was magnificent between the posts. Commanding under crosses, sharp with his reflexes, and cool with the ball at his feet, he denied Newcastle a certain goal on 23 minutes with a stunning save from point-blank range.
Though he could do nothing about the home side’s late strike, Garcia finished the night with another vital stop to preserve the win. Already an undisputed starter in La Liga, the Catalan shot-stopper left his mark on Europe as well — just like Rashford.
Two new faces, one unforgettable night under the lights of St James Park. Barça’s Champions League campaign could not have started better.