Fabian Schar’s sensational long-range goal capped a stunning 4-1 thrashing of Paris Saint-Germain as Newcastle went top of Group F in their first Champions League game at St James’ Park in 20 years.
In an emotional and highly-charged atmosphere in the north east, Eddie Howe’s side roared into a three-goal lead as boyhood Newcastle fans Dan Burn and Sean Longstaff found the net either side of half-time following Miguel Almiron’s early opener.
PSG pulled one back through Lucas Hernandez, but the hosts showed impressive resilience to hold off a fight back and then sealed a historic victory when Schar fired a brilliant effort into the top corner to send the home fans into dreamland.
The victory, over a side who reached the final of the competition only three years ago, was Newcastle’s biggest-ever in the Champions League and made even more impressive by the fact they were without key players Sven Botman, Callum Wilson and Joelinton.
The Magpies’ win, during which they limited Kylian Mbappe to a single shot on goal, takes them top of Group F following their goalless draw with AC Milan in their opening game and serves as a major statement of intent in the competition.
More to follow…
What’s next?
Newcastle’s next assignment is a Premier League trip to West Ham at the London Stadium on Sunday October 8 (kick-off 2pm).
PSG return to Ligue 1 action by travelling to Rennes, also on Sunday (kick-off 7.45pm).
