Newcastle United produced a ruthless performance in Azerbaijan as they dismantled Qarabag 6–1 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off, taking a commanding step toward qualification.
The visitors wasted no time asserting control, with Anthony Gordon opening the scoring in the third minute to set the tone for a one-sided contest at the Tofiq Bahramov Republican Stadium.
Five minutes later, Malick Thiaw doubled the advantage, leaving the hosts reeling.
Gordon continued his devastating first-half display by converting a penalty in the 32nd minute before completing a stunning hat-trick just two minutes later, as Newcastle tore through the Qarabag defence with pace, precision, and relentless pressing.
By halftime, the Magpies had already established an unassailable 5–0 lead, completely dominating possession and territory. While Qarabag goalkeeper Mateusz Kochalski produced several fine saves, he was repeatedly exposed by Newcastle’s fluid attacking movement.
At the other end, Nick Pope remained largely untroubled, comfortably dealing with the few efforts that came his way.
Newcastle maintained their intensity after the break. Jacob Murphy added a sixth goal in the 71st minute to cap a comprehensive European performance, while Qarabag managed a late consolation through Cafarquliyev in the 55th minute.
Manager Eddie Howe’s side impressed with sharp attacking combinations, coordinated high pressing, and clinical finishing, with standout performances from Gordon, Thiaw, and Harvey Barnes, who orchestrated multiple attacking sequences.
