Analysis: Newcastle 1-2 Barcelona

Newcastle team selection raised eyebrows when the big summer striker acquisition to replace Alexander Isak, Nick Woltemade, was left on the bench.

Woltemade made a scoring debut following his move from Stuttgart with the winner against Wolverhampton Wanderers, although he did come off with cramp, which may have played a part in Eddie Howe's thoughts.

Anthony Gordon was used through the centre, presumably in a bid to trouble Barcelona with pace, and while he got on the scoresheet late on, he struggled to make a concerted impression.

Newcastle, roared on by the typically noisy and passionate Toon Army, gave as good as they got for almost an hour until Marcus Rashford made his mark, their biggest chance coming after 23 minutes when Anthony Elanga played in Harvey Barnes, only for an unconvincing finish from the winger.

Former Newcastle hero Tino Asprilla was in attendance at St James' Park, reviving memories of his finest hour in a black and white shirt, when he scored a hat-trick in a 3-2 win against Barcelona in the Champions League in September 1997.

There was to be no repeat here, but this was a spirited effort by Newcastle, who showed enough to give them hope for the battles ahead in the tournament's league table format.

Newcastle's fans appreciated their side's endeavours against a Barcelona side of such experience and quality, giving them a rousing reception at the final whistle.