Barcelona won against Newcastle 2-1 on matchday 1 of the UEFA Champions League, thanks to two goals from Marcus Rashford. The match was filled with excitement, and Rashford’s performance established him as a key player for Barcelona, placing him alongside Lionel Messi as a notable goalscorer.
Rashford scored his first goal in the 58th minute, heading in a cross from Jules Kounde. His second goal was spectacular, hitting the ball from outside the box and scoring off the crossbar.
With these two goals, Rashford joined the ranks of Barcelona players who have scored twice in England during a Champions League match, a group that includes Messi and other club legends. The full list is as follows:
- Ronaldinho in 2005 (vs. Chelsea)
- Zlatan Ibrahimovic in 2010 (vs. Arsenal)
- Luis Suarez in 2015 (vs. Manchester City)
- Lionel Messi in 2016 (vs. Arsenal)
- Lionel Messi in 2018 (vs. Tottenham)
- Marcus Rashford in 2025 (vs. Newcastle)
Marcus Rashford of FC Barcelona scoring vs Newcastle.
Which brace was the most important?
Looking at the significance of a Barcelona player scoring a brace in England during the Champions League is intriguing. The list includes some of the club’s finest players, each moment holding its own importance. However, one performance stands out for its impact on Barcelona’s journey.
Luis Suarez’s brace against Manchester City in 2015 is often considered the most crucial. The 2014-15 season was key, as Barcelona was developing the style that would lead them to a historic treble. The match against City was a major challenge, with the Premier League team seen as a strong contender. A poor outcome in that leg could have shaken Barcelona’s confidence.
Suarez met the challenge head-on. His two goals secured a vital 2-1 victory for Barcelona and highlighted his sharp instincts and hard work, breaking down City’s defense. His effort was a turning point that helped Barcelona advance in the knockout stage, boosting their confidence.
Suarez’s brace is remembered for marking a peak moment in a key season for the club. It signified more than just a personal achievement — it was crucial for the club’s path towards completing a remarkable treble.