Key Takeaways:
- Newcastle secured a 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in the Champions League last night, marking their third consecutive tournament victory
- Dan Burn and Joelinton both scored headers as Newcastle maintained their bid for the knockout stages
- Athletic Bilbao suffered their third defeat in four group matches and have now lost five of their last six European away fixtures
Match Overview and Early Momentum
Newcastle United continued their fine form in Europe’s premier club competition, defeating Athletic Bilbao 2-0 to notch their third straight Champions League win. The triumph came hot on the heels of their weekend defeat to West Ham, yet the Magpies responded emphatically at St James’ Park, displaying attacking intent from the outset.
Dan Burn gave the hosts the lead in the 11th minute, expertly guiding Kieran Trippier’s pinpoint free kick beyond the visiting defence with a powerful header. Athletic Bilbao, to their credit, fought back but were unable to restore parity during a spirited first half.
ANOTHER BIG WIN IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE! 👊 pic.twitter.com/ACzvjea1qr
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) November 5, 2025
Second-Half Decisiveness and Defensive Assurance
Newcastle doubled their advantage with another headed goal, this time from Joelinton, who capitalised on a close-range delivery by Harvey Barnes. The second strike proved decisive, effectively quelling the Basque side’s resurgence and shifting the match firmly in the hosts’ favour.
The Magpies’ defence remained resolute, with Nick Pope called into serious action only once, producing a superb save to deny Nico Serrano’s ambitious long-range effort. This reinforced Newcastle’s pursuit of a fifth consecutive home victory across all competitions.
Standings Implications
With three wins from their opening four group matches, Newcastle now look firmly on course to progress beyond the group stage. In contrast, Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Bilbao squad are facing an uphill battle, having suffered three defeats in four games and continuing to struggle away from home in European competition. Their away woes were further compounded by this result, making it five losses in their last six continental outings.
| Team | Result | Goalscorers | Key Stat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newcastle United | 2 | Dan Burn (11′), Joelinton (49′) | Third consecutive Champions League win |
| Athletic Bilbao | 0 | – | Five defeats in last six European away games |
