In an electrifying performance, Anthony Gordon made headlines by scoring four goals in the first half of the Champions League play-off match against Qarabag in Baku. His remarkable achievement began just 122 seconds into the game, setting a record for Newcastle for the fastest goal in Champions League history. Gordon's clinical finishing not only helped Newcastle establish a commanding lead but also made him the fastest Englishman to score a hat-trick in the competition and the quickest player to achieve this feat for an English club.

Manager Eddie Howe's tactical switch of Gordon from a winger to a centre-forward paid off immensely, allowing him to demonstrate his scoring prowess effectively. The match saw Newcastle completely overpower Qarabag within the first half-hour, showcasing their strength in the competition. However, amidst the celebrations, a minor tiff between Gordon and his captain, Kieran Trippier, emerged over penalty taking, highlighting the competitive spirit of the players. Despite Trippier's request for Gordon to allow another teammate to take a spot-kick, Gordon's determination to score led to a visible disagreement.

This match not only reinforced Newcastle's dominance in their Champions League campaign but also placed Gordon in the spotlight, raising expectations for his role in the team going forward. With such a strong performance, the stakes are higher for Newcastle in the tournament, emphasizing the impact of individual brilliance on the team's collective success. The event marks a significant moment in the club's history as they seek to establish themselves as a formidable force in European football.