Newcastle United 2-0 Athletic Club: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes’ post-match review of Newcastle United 2-0 Athletic Club in the Champions League on Wednesday, 05 November 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Well, what a cracking performance from Newcastle United, eh? They absolutely dominated Athletic Club, securing a solid 2-0 victory at home. The Magpies got off to a flyer with Dan Burn nodding in a beauty from Kieran Trippier’s assist just 11 minutes in. Joelinton then doubled the lead early in the second half, thanks to a lovely bit of work from Harvey Barnes. Given Athletic Club’s recent form, including a win against Qarabağ, this result might’ve raised a few eyebrows, but Newcastle were in top gear from the off and never looked back.

Athletic Club, despite their recent win, couldn’t find their rhythm at St. James’ Park. They struggled to create any real chances and were second best throughout. The two yellow cards they picked up in the second half summed up their frustration. Newcastle, on the other hand, extended their winning run and showed they mean business in the Champions League. Standout performances from Burn and Joelinton, with their goals, and Trippier, with his assist, really made the difference.

Looking at the stats, it’s clear Newcastle United were the dominant force. They held 59% of the ball, which allowed them to control the tempo and dictate play. Despite having fewer corners (2 to Athletic Club’s 5), Newcastle’s quality shone through with their successful dribbles at 54%, compared to Athletic Club’s 32%. The Magpies also kept their discipline, finishing the match without a single yellow card, while Athletic Club picked up two.

These numbers paint a picture of a game where Newcastle were in the driving seat. Their higher possession and dribbling success rate show they were more comfortable on the ball and more effective in breaking down Athletic Club’s defence. It’s no surprise they came away with the win, given how they dominated in key areas.

The game’s pivotal moments came early and decisively. Dan Burn’s header in the 11th minute, assisted by Kieran Trippier, set the tone for the match. Newcastle didn’t let up, and Joelinton’s goal just four minutes into the second half, set up by Harvey Barnes, sealed the deal. These two goals were the turning points that Athletic Club couldn’t recover from.

Athletic Club’s frustrations were evident with yellow cards to Aitor Paredes and Jesús Areso in the second half. Despite making five substitutions, they couldn’t find a way back into the game. Newcastle’s early lead and their ability to maintain it through smart substitutions and solid defending were key to their victory.

Newcastle United lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Nick Pope in goal and a back four of Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, and Burn. The midfield trio of Guimarães, Tonali, and Joelinton provided the engine room, while Barnes, Woltemade, and Gordon led the attack. This setup allowed Newcastle to control the game, with the midfield trio dominating possession and the front three causing problems for Athletic Club’s defence.

Athletic Club opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Unai Simón between the sticks and a backline of Areso, Vivian, Paredes, and Boiro. The midfield was anchored by Rego and Jauregizar, with Navarro, Vesga, and Berenguer supporting striker Gómez. Despite their solid setup, they struggled to cope with Newcastle’s intensity and couldn’t find a way to break through the Magpies’ defence.

Kieran Trippier takes home the Ladbrokes’ Man of the Match award, and rightly so. His assist for Dan Burn’s opening goal was a moment of quality that set the tone for the match. Trippier’s influence on the game was evident throughout, with his leadership and defensive solidity helping Newcastle maintain their lead. A top performance from the England international.

Recent Champions League matches:

• Win: 2-0 vs Athletic Club (H)
• Win: 3-0 vs Benfica (H)

Recent Champions League matches:

• Loss: 0-2 vs Newcastle United (A)
• Win: 3-1 vs Qarabağ (H)

Currently sitting in 6th place with 9 points, Newcastle United will face Brentford on November 09, 2025 at 14:00.

Sitting in 27th place with 3 points, Athletic Club will take on Real Oviedo on November 09, 2025 at 13:00.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.