Anthony Gordon delivered a performance for the ages as Newcastle United demolished Qarabag 6-1 in their Champions League knockout play-off first leg in Baku. The 24-year-old winger scored four goals in the first half, a feat that not only sealed Newcastle’s progression to the next round but also placed him in an exclusive Champions League scoring club alongside England captain Harry Kane.
Gordon’s quadruple came in a blistering first-half display that stunned the Azerbaijani champions. He opened the scoring in the third minute with a composed finish before adding a penalty in the 32nd minute. Moments later, he raced clear to complete his hat-trick, and then converted a second spot-kick before halftime. His four-goal haul made him only the second player in Champions League history to score four times in the first half of a game, joining Luiz Adriano, who achieved the same feat for Shakhtar Donetsk in 2014.
Beyond the immediate impact of his goals, Gordon’s exploits elevated him into rare company. He joined Harry Kane in the prestigious group of English players with prolific Champions League scoring records. Kane set the benchmark last season when he became the first English player to score 11 goals in a single Champions League campaign. Gordon’s tally now places him firmly within that elite circle, underscoring his transformation into a continental force despite struggles in domestic competition.
Gordon’s goals also carried historic significance for Newcastle United. He broke Alan Shearer’s long-standing record for most Champions League goals in a single season for the Magpies. In addition, he set a new milestone for the most goals scored by an Englishman for an English club in one campaign. For a player who has managed just three goals in the Premier League this season, his European form has been nothing short of extraordinary. From scoring against Barcelona to braces against Union Saint-Gilloise and Bayer Leverkusen, Gordon has consistently delivered on the biggest stage.
Newcastle’s emphatic victory virtually guarantees their place in the last 16, with Chelsea or Barcelona awaiting in the next round. The Magpies will need to maintain their momentum against such formidable opponents, and Gordon’s form could prove decisive. Yet, the contrast between Newcastle’s European dominance and its inconsistent Premier League campaign remains stark. Currently sitting tenth in the league, Eddie Howe’s side face a daunting trip to Manchester City at the weekend. Newcastle’s record at the Etihad is dismal, with their last Premier League win there dating back to 2000. The clash will test whether Gordon’s European brilliance can inspire a turnaround in domestic form.
The night in Baku carried multiple tones. There was celebration and pride in Gordon’s achievement and Newcastle’s commanding win. The feat was also historic and prestigious, as he joined Kane in a rare Champions League scoring club. At the same time, the looming challenge of Chelsea or Barcelona injected a tense and competitive edge to Newcastle’s European journey. Finally, the report carried a contrasting and reflective tone, highlighting Gordon’s struggles in the Premier League compared to his dazzling performances in Europe.
Anthony Gordon’s night against Qarabag will be remembered not only for its immediate impact but also for its place in Champions League history. His goals ensured Newcastle’s progress, broke records, and placed him alongside Harry Kane in an exclusive club. For a player once criticized for inconsistency, Gordon’s European exploits have redefined his reputation and given Newcastle fans hope that their team can compete with Europe’s elite.
