Gordon Hits Four as Newcastle Thrash Qarabag 6-1

Anthony Gordon delivered a historic performance as Newcastle United stormed to a 6-1 victory over Qarabag in their Champions League last-16 play-off first leg.

The England international struck four times in a ruthless display, overtaking Alan Shearer to become Newcastle’s all-time leading scorer in the Champions League.

It was the Magpies’ biggest-ever win in Europe’s elite competition and leaves Eddie Howe’s side firmly in control ahead of the return leg at St James’ Park.

Gordon Makes History in Baku

Anthony Gordon wasted no time setting the tone, opening the scoring inside two minutes after latching onto a Dan Burn through ball and finishing calmly past Mateusz Kochalski.

Newcastle doubled their lead shortly after when Malick Thiaw powered home a header from Kieran Trippier’s pinpoint cross.

Gordon’s second came from the penalty spot following a VAR review for handball, and he completed a stunning hat-trick moments later after capitalising on a defensive error.

He then added his fourth from another penalty before half-time, showcasing his composure and confidence on the biggest stage.

Newcastle’s Dominance

Newcastle United were relentless throughout:

• 22 total shots

• 14 shots on target

• 39 touches inside the opposition box

Despite Qarabag pulling one back through Elvin Cafarquliyev early in the second half, substitute Jacob Murphy restored the five-goal cushion with a deflected strike from distance.

The Azerbaijani champions, who had previously impressed against Chelsea and Benfica in the competition, simply could not cope with Newcastle’s pace and intensity.

Howe’s Statement Performance

Head coach Eddie Howe had spoken pre-match about creating “moments people talk about for a long time” — and his team delivered emphatically.

Gordon’s clinical finishing underlined his evolution into a decisive Champions League performer, with 10 goals now in the competition this season.

The tie now appears effectively settled before the return fixture on Tyneside, allowing Howe the possibility to rotate with domestic fixtures looming.

What’s Next?

Newcastle face a Premier League clash against Manchester City before hosting Qarabag for the second leg next week.

Qarabag will attempt to regroup domestically before travelling to England, though overturning a five-goal deficit will require an extraordinary turnaround.