Rashford shines in Barcelona debut and Manchester City triumphs in De Bruyne's return to the Etihad Stadium

FC Barcelona secured a valuable 2–1 away win over Newcastle on the opening day of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League, growing stronger as the match went on after weathering the English side’s offensive onslaught, especially in the first 45 minutes.

Without their star player, Lamine Yamal, sidelined due to injury, the azulgranas managed to win thanks to an outstanding performance by Marcus Rashford. The English striker, on loan from Manchester United, scored both goals for the side coached by German Hansi Flick.

"I'm learning a new way of playing soccer and it's making me a better player. It's an incredible experience to play for Barcelona and we want to win as much as possible. It's exhilarating to play with these guys," Rashford said after the clash against Newcastle.

After a first half with no change on the scoreboard, the first goal came in the 58th minute, Rashford headed home Jules Koundé's cross from the right flank.

Nine minutes later, Rashford widened the gap on the scoreboard with a powerful right-footed shot from the edge of the area.

England winger Anthony Gordon scored Newcastle's only goal after 90 minutes.

City relentless on De Bruyne's return to the Etihad Stadium

Also in England, Manchester City got its first win in this edition of the UEFA Champions League after defeating Napoli (2-0). A match that was marked by the return to the Etihad Stadium of Kevin De Bruyne, a legend of the Citizens.

The Belgian received a warm tribute from his former fans, for whom he played from the 2015/16 season through the 2024/25 season.

In the first half, the Italians were down a player due to the sending off of full-back Giovanni Di Lorenzo, forcing manager Antonio Conte to readjust his tactics.

Man City star Erling Haaland headed in a cross from England's Phil Foden to put the side coached by Spain's Pep Guardiola ahead in the 56th minute. The 25-year-old Norwegian has 50 goals in 49 UEFA Champions League appearances.

Belgian winger Jeremy Doku sealed the win for Manchester City with a low shot in the 65th minute.