Barcelona forward Marcus Rashford scored two superb goals to secure a rousing 2-1 victory at Newcastle United in the Champions League on Thursday.
And the 27-year-old, on loan from struggling Manchester United, has now credited the Catalan club with improving him as a player and restoring his self-confidence.
Elsewhere, there were wins for Manchester City, Club Brugge, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Sporting Lisbon, while Bayer Leverkusen could only manage a draw.
Rashford hails ‘amazing experience’
With England boss Thomas Tuchel watching on from the stands, Rashford’s brilliant performance – featuring a clinical header and a powerful long-range strike – showcased a return to his best form.
“I’m learning a lot – it’s a new style of football, but it’s making me a better player,” he told TNT Sports after the game at St James’ Park.
“Honestly, it’s an amazing experience. I’ve always been a huge admirer of Barcelona – every player my age has watched them play. It’s amazing football.”
Regarding manager Hansi Flick’s role in his good form, the Mancunian added: “He’s very important. I feel the confidence he’s given me.
“I knew he was a top manager before I arrived here, but to work with him is a pleasure. I hope the good relationship will continue for the rest of the season.”
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Flick praises ‘unbelievable’ finishing
After Rashford led his side to an important three points against the Magpies, Flick revealed his delight at having signed the United outcast in the summer.
“When we got this chance [to sign Rashford], it was ‘ok, we have to do it’,” the German said in the post-match press conference.
“I spoke with him before everything went the right way. I said, ‘I want to have you in my team’. For me, he’s an outstanding player.
“Also the team helps him a lot. We controlled the match [against Newcastle] a lot with Pedri, Frenkie De Jong – it’s not easy to press us.
“That gives the striker the opportunity to find the right spaces behind the opponent’s last line and in front.
“He had this strength that he can use. His speed, his control with the ball, and his finishing is unbelievable.”
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Thrilling first round concludes
Also on Thursday, Pep Guardiola’s fast-improving Man City outfit made light work of Napoli, prevailing 2-0 in Manchester after Giovanni Di Lorenzo’s early red card for bringing down Erling Haaland when the Norwegian was clean through on goal.
In other action, Eintracht Frankfurt dismantled Galatasaray 5-1, Club Brugge overcame AS Monaco 4-1, and Sporting Lisbon outclassed Kairat 4-1.
There was disappointment for German giants Leverkusen, however, with Die Werkself having to settle for a last-gasp 2-2 stalemate at Copenhagen.
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Geoffrey H. Latayan 
Vivien Bernardino