Newcastle defeated Benfica 3-0 in the Champions League thanks to goals from Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes as Jose Mourinho made his feelings clear at full-time at St James’ Park
Jose Mourinho was forced to suffer another defeat on Tyneside, but could not help but give credit where it was due upon the full-time whistle. The Benfica boss had little reason to smile, but wasted little time highlighting who he thought was responsible for putting his team to the sword in the Champions League.
While St James’ Park celebrated three points and a 3-0 win, Mourinho headed straight in Anthony Gordon ‘s direction to offer some praise. The England international scored the night’s opening goal as the Magpies moved to seventh in the league phase of Europe’s premier competition.
Man of the match Gordon terrorised the Benfica backline, but it was Harvey Barnes who bagged a brace. Goalkeeper Nick Pope launched a 65-yard throw to the winger who held his composure well to take the ball into the box and finish.
Gordon then turned provider for Barnes in the latter stages of the game as Newcastle claimed an important win against Mourinho’s men. Speaking in his press conference, Mourinho highlighted Gordon’s impact.
“This tells me about the level of Newcastle,” he said. “We could not compete with their horsepower. We lost being compact and were exposed. It’s just a case of levels.
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“Their second goal was a killer, psychologically. The man-of-the-match was Anthony Gordon. Their wingers have pace and power – and they have four of them.”
Former Everton youngster Gordon became the first Newcastle player to score in three consecutive Champions League games. “It means everything, but we need more, my ambition doesn’t stop there,” he said.
“Because we had so many chances, we had to put one away to calm the nerves. I was glad to see it go in. Playing with [Jacob] Murphy, I knew he was going to play that ball every time. That goal is all about him.
“We all love [Nick] Pope. He is one of the most popular people in the dressing room he is a top guy and a top keeper. He has kept us in so many game already this season and some of the saves he made were incredible.
Eddie Howe also heaped praise on the goalscorer. “Anthony [Gordon] was outstanding. He looked a real threat all game,” the Newcastle boss said.
“He was dynamic, aggressive and positive. Jacob [Murphy’s] always been an assist threat and he was absolutely that. Some of the deliveries he put in were very good. I’m pleased for Harvey[Barnes] to come on and get the two that he did on the right side which shows his versatility. It’ll do those three players a world of good.”
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