Newcastle player ratings vs Union SG: 10/10 awarded and Nick Woltemade proves his worth

Newcastle United dazzled on the European stage with a flawless display in Brussels, as Nick Woltemade and Anthony Elanga dominated the game. The Magpies took control of the first half after weathering some early pressure from Union SG, and on the 17th minute, they took the lead thanks to Woltemade's close-range flick, following excellent teamwork from Elanga and Sandro Tonali.

The scoreline doubled when Elanga was fouled in the box, and Anthony Gordon stepped up to double the lead, putting Newcastle firmly in control at half-time. Gordon scored his second penalty of the night on the 64th minute, following Kamiel Van de Perre's handball. Newcastle added some sparkle to the scoreline when substitutes Harvey Barnes and Will Osula combined, with the former Leicester star neatly bagging the fourth goal in a 4-0 victory.

Here's how Newcastle performed in Brussels...

Newcastle player ratings vs Union SG

Nick Pope 8

He shrugged off Sunday's nerves against Arsenal with a series of impressive saves.

Kieran Trippier 8

He was a crucial presence on the right-hand side, providing for Elanga and also applying pressure on the home side.

Malick Thiaw 8

A solid performance from the German star. He's developing a good understanding with Botman.

Sven Botman 8

He made some key interceptions and resembled the player who initially made waves at Newcastle.

Dan Burn 7

He fought hard and organised the defence effectively. He seemed more comfortable when moved into the centre.

Bruno Guimaraes 7

Didn't do much wrong, but his legs were saved for Sunday with the game won and a decent shift completed.

Sandro Tonali 8

The driving force as he helped set up the opener with a fierce shot. Oozed quality and was made for nights like this.

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Joelinton 7

Had chances to score but was replaced before the hour. Probably because he was on a yellow card.

Anthony Elanga 10

Caused a host of problems for Union SG and had a hand in the opening two goals to pave the way for victory.

Anthony Gordon 8

Showed ice-cold composure for the two penalties and buried memories of a horror miss at Everton 12 months ago.

Nick Woltemade 9

Ramming the words of Bayern critics down their neck. Another goal and was a real presence in a great show.

Substitutes

Lewis Miley 7 (for Joelinton 59)

Slotted in comfortably.

Lewis Hall 7 (for Guimaraes 73)

A slick cameo.

Harvey Barnes 8 (for Elanga 73)

Weighed in with a goal after a lovely move with Osula.

Will Osula 7 (for Woltemade 73)

Made an impact and teed up Barnes.

Fabian Schar N/A (for Trippier 83)

Helped secure the defence late on.