Newcastle United Claim Historic Champions League Victory with 4-0 Win Over Royale Union SG

Newcastle United delivered a dominant performance in Brussels, securing their first UEFA Champions League league phase win of the 2025/26 season with a resounding 4-0 triumph over Royale Union SG. The result also marked Eddie Howe’s first-ever away victory in the competition as Newcastle manager.

The Magpies endured a nervy start in the Belgian capital when Kevin Rodríguez rose unchallenged from a corner but headed over the bar an early warning that seemed to jolt Newcastle into focus. Once settled, they took control of the match, and their sustained pressure paid off before the 20-minute mark.

Anthony Elanga whipped in a dangerous cross that the Union defence only half-cleared, allowing the ball to fall to Sandro Tonali at the edge of the box. His first-time volley was deflected home by Nick Woltemade, who celebrated his maiden Champions League goal.

Despite trailing, the defending Belgian champions responded with intent. However, Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope stood firm, making a pair of comfortable saves to deny Adem Zorgane and keep the visitors ahead.

The hosts’ hopes of a comeback were dealt a major blow just before halftime when Fedde Leysen clumsily brought down the pacey Elanga inside the penalty area. Anthony Gordon stepped up and coolly converted the resulting penalty, sending goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen the wrong way.

Royale Union emerged with renewed urgency after the break and nearly pulled one back within minutes of the restart. Second-half substitute Marc Giger split the Newcastle defense with a precise through ball for Anan Khalaili, but the striker’s curling effort drifted just wide of the far post.

Any momentum the home side had built was quickly extinguished when Leysen committed another costly error, this time handling the ball in the box.

Once again, Gordon assumed penalty duties and made no mistake, slotting home into the bottom-right corner despite Scherpen guessing correctly. With time running out and chasing the game, Sébastien Pocognoli’s side threw numbers forward, leaving gaps at the back.

Newcastle capitalized on the open play in the closing stages, as Harvey Barnes finished off a blistering counterattack to seal a comprehensive 4-0 victory.

Eddie Howe’s side appeared to ease off after the fourth goal, likely mindful of their upcoming Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest this Sunday. Meanwhile, Royale Union SG must regroup quickly as they prepare for a tough Pro League fixture away to second-placed Club Brugge, aiming to protect their position at the top of the domestic table.