Newcastle United breezed past Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday night, with Anthony Gordon the star of the show.
He scored the Magpies’ opener at St James’ Park, breaking the deadlock in the 32nd minute in front of the Leazes End.
Anthony Gordon also got himself an assist, setting up Harvey Barnes’ second as Newcastle United beat Benfica 3-0.
The England international continued his exceptional Champions League form, having also scored against Barcelona and Union Saint-Gilloise.
Jose Mourinho was impressed with Gordon, and that sentiment was shared by the Portuguese media.
Anthony Gordon takes a selfie with his UEFA player of the match award after Newcastle United's Champions League win over Benfica.
Photo by Charlie Crowhurst – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Following Newcastle’s win over Benfica, Portuguese outlet A Bola provided their player ratings. They gave their man of the match award to Gordon, who tormented the Benfica defence from the first minute.
Amar Dedic could not handle the 24-year-old’s direct speed, unable to even get close to him before being substituted in the 63rd minute. The Bosnian defender will have been glad to come off and see the back of Gordon!
A Bola gave Newcastle United’s number 10 a score of 8/10, praising him for his ‘venomous runs’.
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“An arrow pointed at Trubin’s goal,” they wrote.
“The array of technical skills that distinguish Gordon darkened Dedic’s night. The 24-year-old winger outmaneuvered the Bosnian full-back from the first minute, both in one-on-one situations on the wing and with venomous runs into the penalty area.
“The English international compensated for pivot Woltemade’s runs into midfield and appeared in the right place to tap in Murphy’s cross in the 32nd minute, into Trubin’s net.
“In the second half, Gordon spread his wings on the left wing and was unselfish in the central corridor. He provided the assist for Barnes that sealed the Reds’ downfall.”
Anthony Gordon knows he must take Champions League form into the Premier League
Gordon was named the UEFA player of the match for his performance, as he took his season tally to four. Add in his assist for Harvey Barnes and he now has five goal contributions this season.
Incredibly, they have all come in the Champions League.
He discussed his European form after the full-time whistle, with BeIN Sports asking Gordon if he likes playing in the Champions League.
“Yeah I do, but I need to start replicating it in the Premier League,” he said.
“I don’t know what it is, maybe it’s the ball!
“I’m enjoying the Champions League. It brings the best out of me. The biggest games, the biggest stage. I do really enjoy it.”
Gordon is one of the top scorers in the Champions League this season, yet he has had no impact domestically. He has failed to provide a goal or an assist in either the Premier League or the Carabao Cup.
His start to the domestic season has been blighted by suspension, with Gordon missing three games following his red card against Liverpool.
Having excelled for England and in the Champions League, this has the makings of another special season for Anthony Gordon. However, that will only come to pass if he brings this form to the Premier League.
That must start on Saturday as Newcastle United entertain Fulham at St James’ Park.