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Gordon’s Four-Goal First-Half Teardown Sends Newcastle into Champions League Dreamland

18 February 2026

Gordon’s Four-Goal First-Half Teardown Sends Newcastle into Champions League Dreamland
Anthony Gordon’s four-goal haul helps Newcastle to a 6-1 win in Azerbaijan.

Match Highlights

Newcastle United crushed Qarabağ 6-1 in the UEFA Champions League qualifying ties staged in Azerbaijan, seizing control from the opening whistle and never letting go.

Anthony Gordon led the assault with four goals inside the opening half, becoming the first knockout-stage scorer to reach four in a single half, a record that even Messi and Ronaldo would nod at—then politely ask for a rematch.

According to Sofascore, Gordon's quartet marked a historic milestone for English players in the knockout rounds. Newcastle also produced 11 clear-cut chances, the most by any side in a knockout game since 2011-12, underscoring their relentless attack.

Newcastle's 6-1 victory leaves them well-placed to reach the Round of 16, with the return leg at St James' Park offering a chance to seal the progression.

In addition to Gordon’s heroics, Malik Thiao and Jacob Murphy added the remaining goals to seal the win. Qarabağ's defense will want a rematch, but this was Newcastle's night to shine.

What it means

The thrashing puts Newcastle in a strong position for the second leg and strengthens their confidence heading into the remainder of the campaign.

Punchline: If football had a fast-forward button, tonight's highlights would require a volume control to avoid people fainting from joy.

Punchline 2: And if skepticism had a season pass, it would have canceled its subscription after Gordon’s performance.

Author

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score and who starred for Newcastle?

Newcastle won 6-1, with Anthony Gordon scoring four goals in the opening half.

What records did Gordon set?

He became the first English player to score four goals in a knockout match, and his early treble is described as the fastest by an English player in knockout rounds according to the report.

What does this mean for Newcastle’s progression?

The result puts Newcastle in a strong position to advance to the Round of 16, with the return leg at St James’ Park still to come.