Gordon's Four-Goal Masterclass Seals Newcastle's Champions League Progress
Anthony Gordon delivered a stunning individual performance, scoring four times as Newcastle United demolished Qarabag 6-1 in the first leg of their Champions League play-off in Baku. The emphatic victory leaves Eddie Howe's side all but certain of a place in the competition's last-16 round.
Record-Breaking Start and First-Half Blitz
The 24-year-old England international needed just three minutes to break the deadlock, surpassing Alan Shearer's club record of six goals in a single European campaign. Gordon then added three more before half-time, with two coming from the penalty spot, as Newcastle ruthlessly dismantled the Azerbaijani champions.
Dan Burn initiated the opening goal with a surging run upfield, picking out Gordon who fired right-footed across goalkeeper Mateusz Kochalski. Malick Thiaw doubled the advantage after eight minutes, heading home Kieran Trippier's cross.
Gordon extended the lead from the penalty spot following a VAR review that determined Matheus Silva had handled Harvey Barnes' shot. He completed his hat-trick moments later, capitalising on a defensive error from Kevin Medina to round Kochalski and score. Gordon then converted another penalty in first-half stoppage time after being fouled by the goalkeeper.
Second-Half Response and Late Flourish
Qarabag showed improved resilience after the break, with Elvin Jafarguliyev pulling a goal back nine minutes into the second half. The home side created several chances, with Joni Montiel forcing Nick Pope into action and Pedro Bicalho seeing his powerful drive deflected wide by Trippier.
However, substitute Jacob Murphy restored Newcastle's five-goal cushion in the 72nd minute with a deflected effort that went in off Jafarguliyev. Kochalski made a spectacular double save from Burn and Will Osula late on to prevent further damage, while 18-year-old Sean Neave nearly marked his debut with a goal.
Broader Context and Implications
The victory extends Newcastle's recent resurgence, marking their third consecutive away win across different competitions following successes against Tottenham and Aston Villa. They now face a Premier League trip to Manchester City before hosting Qarabag in the second leg at St James' Park next Tuesday.
With a commanding 6-1 aggregate lead, Newcastle are virtually assured of progressing to face either Barcelona or Chelsea in the Champions League knockout stages. The performance showcased their attacking prowess and Gordon's emergence as a key figure in their European campaign.
