Newcastle’s unbeaten run in the Champions League was put to an end by Borussia Dortmund at a stormy St James’ Park.
Newcastle drew at AC Milan before smashing PSG, but found Dortmund to be much tougher opponents than the French champions. Though they had chances, it was Dortmund who struck first when a rapid counter-attack late in the opening period ended with Felix Nmecha sweeping the ball past Nick Pope.
Newcastle did put the pressure on after the break, with Callum Wilson spurning a glorious chance to equalise. However, Dortmund were able to keep the hosts at bay and secure the win.
Newcastle have enjoyed a dream run in the Champions League up to now, going unbeaten in their first two games. But Dortmund boss Edin Terzic drew up the perfect game plan for his side’s trip to Tyneside.
The hosts struggled to get going and though they did have several chances. Gregor Kobel was largely comfortable in the Dortmund goal. It was the Bundesliga side who looked the most threatening an they were able to carve the Magpies open frequently.
Eddie Howe’s side struggled to contain the visitors when they broke forward and looked increasingly isolated in attacking positions when they were able to get on the ball. Though Newcastle did seek to put the pressure on in the second period, this defeat will serve as a reality check of what life in Europe is really like.
Probably, the visitors were missing the drive and spark that Jude Bellingham brings in central midfield. But in terms of a man who can grasp a game by the scruff of the neck, Dortmund certainly have their next Bellingham in the form of Donyell Malen.
The Dutchman gave the Newcastle defence all night long, with Dan Burn delighted he switched wings midway through the first-half. Malen was electric, firing several shots towards the Magpies goal.
Though he was not rewarded with a goal, the winger certainly made a statement that he is Dortmund’s next superstar in waiting. And he put to bed concerns that the Bundesliga side have not replaced Bellingham adequately.
With Newcastle a goal down and losing the midfield battle, the script appeared to be written for Sandro Tonali to change the game in what was likely his final appearance for some time. The midfielder is expected to be handed a lengthy ban for illegal gambling before the weekend.
He started the clash with Dortmund on the bench, but was brought on with more than 20 minutes to go. While he had some bright moments, Tonali was unable to make a sizeable impact and Magpies fans now face an extended wait before they see him playing again.