Newcastle United were terrific against Benfica. Their win was a comprehensive statement of intent in which their attacking firepower and stubborn defense were on full display. Among them, Anthony Gordon stood out with a match-winning performance as the prospect helped the US to an impressive 3-0 victory over Egypt. The game, held at St. James’ Park, was an opportunity for Newcastle to showcase their attacking prowess and defensive strength.
The match featured major roster adjustments after the passing of the transfer investigation, with Lewis Miley filling the absence of Sandro Tonali and Jacob Ramsey relieving Joelinton. Jacob Murphy was another to start, in place of Anthony Elanga. These changes were immediately successful as Newcastle were very soon able to get press Benfica out of their playing style.
Dominant Display by Gordon
Form-wise, this was a tour de force performance by Anthony Gordon. He was a menace to Benfica’s backline, showcasing his dynamic attacking abilities and high press all night long. His time out on the wing showed to be crucial for the win and his game-winning goal illustrated his elite positioning and finishing ability.
“Anthony [Gordon] was outstanding. He looked a real threat all game. He was dynamic, aggressive and positive,” said Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager.
Gordon’s synergy with Nick Woltemade set the stage for one of the match’s highlights, as they combined effectively before Harvey Barnes netted his first goal. This combination, the first of many, showed just how swiftly Newcastle were attacking, a huge difference in dynamic compared to earlier games this season.
Newcastle’s Tactical Changes
The real turning point in the match was the tactical substitution pattern from Newcastle boss Eddie Howe. Substitutions Harvey Barnes for Jacob Ramsey, Joelinton for Jacob Murphy. Not only did this tactical change invigorate the squad, it enabled Newcastle to take advantage of holes in Benfica’s defensive shape.
Nick Pope, who was outstanding the whole game, helped set up the second goal. He released a stunning cross-field 65-yard pass which sent Harvey Barnes tearing clear down the right side. Barnes took full advantage of that opportunity, scoring an excellent low shot from the edge of the area that pretty much sealed a Benfica comeback.
Newcastle’s of course, glaringly important as an expression of goalkeeping as well as producing assists for teammates to score. His stunning stops – notably from Dodi Lukebakio – left Newcastle secure in their clean sheet.
The Impact of Harvey Barnes
Harvey Barnes looked dangerous as soon as he came onto the pitch, scoring 2 goals in his 45 minutes on the field. His first was assisted by none other than Pope himself, with the new Newcastle No.1 showing off his distribution abilities. For the second of those goals, Barnes smartly dribbled around the onrushing Anatoliy Trubin to finish Newcastle’s third.
“I’m pleased for Harvey [Barnes] to come on and get the two that he did on the right side which shows his versatility,” Eddie Howe remarked after the match.
Barnes’ contributions not only bolstered Newcastle’s scoreline but demonstrated the depth of talent within the squad. Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon scored a goal off the game’s first highlight, tapping in a cross from Jacob Murphy. This increased his tally to three goals in this season’s tournament.
Newcastle’s comprehensive win against Benfica emphasizes their potential as they seek to build on last season’s success. Howe expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “Really pleased because Benfica are a very good team, we had to show our qualities.”
Leave a Reply