Rashford and Haaland star as Barcelona and Man City seal Champions League wins

WEB DESK: Manchester City cruised to a 2-0 victory over 10-man Napoli at the Etihad, with Jérémy Doku’s dazzling solo strike and Erling Haaland’s record-breaking goal sealing the points.

Napoli’s hopes crumbled early when Giovanni Di Lorenzo was sent off in the 21st minute for a reckless challenge on Haaland. From there, Pep Guardiola’s side launched wave after wave of attacks, though Napoli goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic stood firm, pulling off a string of superb saves to keep his side alive. The breakthrough finally came just before the hour mark. Phil Foden lofted a clever ball into Haaland’s path, and the Norwegian headed home for his 50th Champions League goal in just 49 games, a record-breaking feat that surpasses Ruud van Nistelrooy’s 62-game mark. Guardiola hailed Haaland’s achievement, placing him alongside “monsters” Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

City’s dominance was later underlined by Doku, who slalomed past multiple defenders before finishing with composure, evoking memories of Ricky Villa’s iconic 1981 FA Cup final goal.

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The night also saw the brief return of Kevin De Bruyne, who was withdrawn after 25 minutes as Napoli reshuffled post red card, a decision met with mixed emotions from fans.

For City, this was a statement performance: Haaland back to his lethal best, Doku dazzling, and Guardiola’s men looking every bit like Champions League favourites once again.

Barcelona vs Newcastle United

Marcus Rashford made a dream Champions League debut for Barcelona, inspiring a 2-1 win over Newcastle United at St James’ Park. On loan from Manchester United, Rashford struck twice in the second half to silence the home crowd and lift the Catalan side to a valuable opening victory.

After a cagey first half, Rashford broke the deadlock in the 58th minute with a glancing header from Jules Koundé’s cross. Nine minutes later, he doubled Barcelona’s advantage with a thunderous 20-yard drive that crashed in off the crossbar past Nick Pope. They were his first Champions League goals in nearly four years and a statement performance in front of England coach Thomas Tuchel, who watched from the stands. The 27-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Aston Villa, left the pitch to a standing ovation from Barcelona’s supporters when substituted late on.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe’s bold decision to bench £69m signing Nick Woltemade and use Anthony Gordon centrally raised eyebrows. Gordon eventually pulled one back in stoppage time, but despite a spirited effort, the hosts could not find an equaliser. Newcastle’s best early chance fell to Harvey Barnes, who failed to convert after being played through by Anthony Elanga.

Barcelona, missing injured teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, still showcased their attacking depth with Raphinha, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Fermin Lopez controlling proceedings. For Newcastle, this spirited but narrow defeat offers hope as they continue their group-stage campaign. For Rashford, however, it was a night of redemption, reasserting his quality on Europe’s biggest stage.