Mansion Sports – Newcastle United claimed a vital 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the fourth matchday of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League league phase, held at St James’ Park. This result marked The Magpies’ third consecutive win in the European competition this season.

Both of Newcastle’s goals came from powerful headers by Dan Burn and Joelinton, each capitalizing on set-piece situations and precise crosses. 

Athletic Bilbao offered determined resistance throughout the match but failed to convert several promising chances.

With this win, Newcastle have collected nine points from four matches, placing them sixth in the overall league phase standings. 

Meanwhile, Athletic Bilbao’s struggles continue, as they remain near the bottom with just three points.

Newcastle Take Early Lead Through Dan Burn’s Header

The match began with high intensity as Newcastle immediately took control and pressed aggressively from the opening minutes. 

The electric atmosphere at St James’ Park fueled the home side’s energy and attacking momentum.

Newcastle broke the deadlock in the 9th minute through a commanding header from Dan Burn. 

The goal stemmed from a well-executed set piece, with Kieran Trippier delivering a pinpoint cross into the box that Burn met with a firm header, leaving goalkeeper Unai Simón with no chance.

Athletic Bilbao quickly sought an equalizer after conceding. Unai Gómez came close to leveling the score, but his powerful strike rattled the crossbar of Nick Pope’s goal. 

The visitors continued to threaten through Adama Boiro, who unleashed a long-range effort that narrowly missed the right post.

Joelinton Seals Victory for Newcastle

In the second half, Newcastle adopted a more composed and calculated approach, focusing on maintaining possession and exploiting their aerial superiority. Their disciplined buildup play continued to trouble Bilbao’s defense.

The hosts doubled their advantage in the 67th minute when Joelinton found the net with a close-range header following an inch-perfect cross from Harvey Barnes. 

The Brazilian midfielder rose above his marker and directed the ball past Unai Simón with precision and power.

Athletic Bilbao refused to back down and attempted to claw their way back into the game through Nico Serrano, who fired a fierce shot from outside the box. However, Nick Pope produced a superb save to preserve Newcastle’s clean sheet.

The scoreline remained 2-0 until the final whistle, confirming another strong home performance for Eddie Howe’s men. 

The victory extended Newcastle’s unbeaten streak at St James’ Park to five matches across all competitions, solidifying their status as one of the most formidable sides on home soil this season.

Match Statistics: Newcastle United vs Athletic Bilbao

Newcastle’s efficiency in front of goal and defensive solidity proved decisive, as they made the most of their opportunities while keeping Bilbao at bay throughout an intense and competitive encounter.