Newcastle handed Champions League reality check by Borussia Dortmund - 5 talking points
Newcastle's unbeaten run in the Champions League was put to an end by Borussia Dortmund at a stormy St James' Park.
The Magpies drew at AC Milan before smashing PSG, but found Dortmund to be much tougher opponents than the French champions. Though they had chances, it was Dortmund who struck first when a rapid counter-attack late in the opening period ended with Felix Nmecha sweeping the ball past Nick Pope.
Newcastle did put the pressure on after the break, with Callum Wilson spurning a glorious chance to equalise, but Dortmund were able to keep the hosts at bay and secure the win. Here, Mirror Football looks at five of the biggest talking points from the Magpies' defeat.
Newcastle have enjoyed a dream run in the Champions League up to now, going unbeaten in their first two games. But Dortmund boss Edin Terzic drew up the perfect game plan for his side's trip to Tyneside.
The hosts struggled to get going and though they did have several chances, Gregor Kobel was largely comfortable in the Dortmund goal. It was the Bundesliga side who looked the most threatening an they were able to carve the Magpies open frequently.
Eddie Howe's side struggled to contain the visitors when they broke forward and looked increasingly isolated in attacking positions when they were able to get on the ball. Though Newcastle did seek to put the pressure on in the second period, this defeat will serve as a reality check of what life in Europe is really like.
OK, maybe the visitors were lacking the drive and spark that Jude Bellingham brings in central midfield. But in terms of a man who can grasp a game by the scruff of the neck, Dortmund certainly have their next Bellingham in the form of Donyell Malen.
The Dutchman gave the Newcastle defence all
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