My heart took a while to slow down as I watched Marcus Rashford score his first two goals in a Barcelona shirt, and that too, goals of the highest order. How much I had been disappointed to see him apparently not do enough for Manchester United and England, but last night, the exhorbitant but somehow latent talent just erupted at St James’ Park, Newcastle.
Barcelona travelled to England to face Newcastle United in the first match of the 25/26 season of the Champions League. The Catalans, undefeated in the new season and one of the favourites as always to win the Champions League, were up against the Magpies, returning to the Champions League. The match was played at a frenetic pace and was a treat to watch with incredible skills on both sides.
Anthony Gordon missed a great chance to score from a lovely Elanga cross. It was a great opportunity, but he missed. Barcelona had their chances too, which went astray. The first half, despite some entertaining football, was goalless, but Rashford was about to showcase something special in the second half.
Barcelona were in the ascendancy when Kounde, running in from the right flank, passed to Rashford in the centre, who produced a header so incredible that Pope in the goal for Newcastle had just no chance. The ball had a fair distance to cover, but the power and precision on the header from Rashford was extraordinary, and Barcelona had taken the lead in the 56th minute.
A missile was waiting to hit Newcastle United as 7 minutes later, Marcus Rashford from just outside the box, hit one out of the screws. A sensational strike it was, and one of the best I have witnessed this season. The stunner had my heart pumping. Rashford had produced two exceptional gems to mark his first two goals for Barcelona. Hansi Flick, the Manager for the Catalans, understandably was a joyous wreck.
Anthony Gordon scored one in the end to get a consolation goal for the hosts, but the Magpies were truly beaten by one man’s sheer brilliance.
I have not seen Rashford strike so well in several years. He was power, precision, and audacity personified. It was akin to redemption for a man with the cloud of intrigue hanging over his head all the time. Hope he comes good for Barcelona and realises his complete potential.
Incredible Rashford!!
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