Nick Pope produced an incredible highlight by delivering a 60-meter throw that set up Harvey Barnes for a goal, contributing to Newcastle's 3-0 win against Benfica in the Champions League.
The match between Newcastle United and Benfica in the Champions League group stage early this morning featured a rare moment in modern football, as goalkeeper Nick Pope recorded his first assist in this prestigious tournament in an unexpected way: a long 60-meter throw.
In the 70th minute, with the score at 1-0 in favor of St. James’ Park, Pope noticed Benfica's defense pushed high and launched a powerful throw that crossed more than half the pitch. The ball reached Harvey Barnes, who skillfully controlled it, let it bounce once, then sprinted forward to face the goalkeeper and finished with a precise low shot to the left corner, doubling Newcastle’s lead.
That moment made the stands erupt with excitement. While Barnes celebrated alongside new signing Nick Woltemade, defenders like Sven Botman, Malick Thiaw, Dan Burn, and Bruno Guimarães ran towards Pope, the quiet hero behind the spectacular assist.
Barnes continued his brilliant form by scoring a second goal in the 83rd minute, completing his brace in Newcastle’s 3-0 triumph. Earlier, Anthony Gordon opened the scoring in the 35th minute with a close-range finish from Jacob Murphy’s cross.
After the match, Gordon shared his feelings about becoming the first Newcastle player to score in three consecutive Champions League matches: “It’s very special, but I’m not stopping here. We had many chances, and the first goal helped the whole team stay calm. I knew Murphy would deliver that pass; the goal is his credit.”
The English striker also praised Pope: “We all love Nick. He’s a great teammate who always brings positive energy. Pope has saved the team many times this season, and today he even provided an unbelievable assist.”
With this victory, Newcastle further solidified their position near the top of the Champions League group, and Nick Pope will surely be remembered not only for his excellent saves but also for one of the most spectacular assists of the season.