qarabag fk vs newcastle — Anthony Gordon breaks Alan Shearer's Champions League record
Anthony Gordon stole the show in the first leg of the Champions League play-off tie, scoring four times as Newcastle romped to a 6-1 win over Qarabag on Tuesday evening (ET). The haul not only sealed a commanding advantage for Eddie Howe's side but also took Gordon past Alan Shearer as Newcastle's all-time leading scorer in the competition, with 10 Champions League goals.
Gordon's night: four goals and a statement
From the first whistle, Gordon was a constant threat. Deployed through the middle rather than out wide, his direct pace and movement repeatedly unsettled Qarabag's defence. Newcastle built a two-goal cushion inside the opening exchanges and never looked back. Gordon completed his quartet with composed finishes and was first to claim the penalty his team won late in the tie, declining to hand the spot-kick to a teammate because he is the designated taker.
After the match Gordon said, "We should be in it together, " before adding that as an attacker he wants to score as many goals as possible. The forward has shown an appetite for central work recently, having opened the scoring at Anfield and played a key creative role in a recent win at Spurs, and on this night the tactic paid dividends in spectacular fashion.
Tactical collapse and the wider context
Qarabag, who have enjoyed notable results in Europe this season, including positive results against several established sides, were badly exposed by Newcastle's high tempo. Observers highlighted that the visitors' early goals were made easier by the home side's decision to defend high and leave space in behind – space that Gordon exploited repeatedly.
Newcastle mixed aggressive pressing with quick transitions, which left Qarabag chasing shadows. The defensive shape of the hosts crumbled as the first half unfolded, and by the time they retreated deeper the damage had been done. The 6-1 scoreline reflects not just clinical finishing from Newcastle but also a profound tactical mismatch on the night.
Aftermath and what it means for the tie
The margin gives Newcastle an almost unassailable lead heading into the second leg. While knock-out ties rarely feel over until the final whistle, overturning a five-goal deficit would demand a near-perfect response from Qarabag and an uncharacteristically poor showing from Newcastle. For Gordon, the night will be remembered both for personal landmarks and for helping to place his team in prime position to reach the last 16.
The game also featured a moment of tension between teammates at half-time that drew attention, a reminder of the competitive intensity coursing through the squad. Managerial reaction emphasized satisfaction with the performance while acknowledging there are still tactical and personnel issues to manage as the Champions League campaign progresses.
Ultimately, this was a statement evening for Newcastle on a long trip that will be remembered for Gordon's finishing clinic and for the club's commanding return from Azerbaijan. With a five-goal cushion and confidence high, the visitors have one foot in the next round and a burgeoning attacking leader staking his claim on the biggest stage.
