Newcastle player ratings vs Benfica as 9/10 duo put Jose Mourinho to the sword | Football | Sport

October 21, 2025 3,145

Newcastle made it back-to-back wins in the Champions League with a brilliant victory against Jose Mourinho’s Benfica at St James’ Park. Building on the win over Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium earlier this month, the Magpies secured another three points in Europe courtesy of Anthony Gordon’s first-half finish and a brace off the bench from substitute Harvey Barnes.

The hosts blew Benfica away in an excellent second half and result means the Toon have six points from a possible nine in this competition after losing to Barcelona in their opener. Express Sport rates and slates the Newcastle players after a big win…

Newcastle player ratings vs Benfica

Nick Pope – 8

Denied Dodi Lukebakio twice with smart saves and then produced an absolutely sublime throw to release Barnes for the second goal. Was rightly lauded by his team-mates for it.

Kieran Trippier – 6

Not his vintage best but still some good moments and good tackles.

Malick Thiaw – 7

Another very strong showing from the summer signing and coped well after being booked in the first half.

Sven Botman – 7

Helped limit Benfica to just two shots on target and keep back-to-back clean sheets in Europe. Played on despite a knock.

Dan Burn – 6

Kept busy by Lukebakio and fortunate Pope bailed him out on one chance but was sturdier after that. A real threat in the air and almost scored a belter at the end.

Bruno Guimaraes – 9

Pivotal and the best player on the pitch. A great pass to release Murphy for Gordon’s goal and constantly involved in the final third. Ran the game. Performance was only missing a goal of his own.

Lewis Miley – 7

In the starting line-up after his assist off the bench at Brighton and produced some nice touches. Headed one chance over the bar second half when he should have scored.

Jacob Ramsey – 6

Had some flashes of quality but never truly got into the game before being taken off on the hour mark.

Jacob Murphy – 8

An electric display in place of Anthony Elanga and a great cross into Ramsey almost led to a goal before a well-timed clearance. He then did assist the opener with a cross to Gordon at the back post. Also denied a goal of his own by a good low save from Trubin.

Nick Woltemade – 7

Lots of instances of unbelievable close control and worked really hard off the ball. Didn’t get many scoring opportunities himself but a great flick to Gordon in the build-up to the third goal.

Anthony Gordon – 9

In the right place to put Newcastle 1-0 up with a side-foot finish, scoring in a third consecutive Champions League match. Then created Barnes’ second with great play. Was a constant threat throughout and worked hard off the ball too. Rightly got a standing ovation when he went off.