UEFA explain Anthony Elanga decision in Newcastle United’s Champions League win over Union SG

Anthony Elanga was named UEFA’s Player of the Match after playing a key role in Newcastle United’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League.

The 23-year-old winger was instrumental in two of the Magpies’ goals as Eddie Howe’s side recorded their biggest-ever Champions League win on Wednesday night.

Newcastle’s dominant display

Newcastle struck twice in each half at Lotto Park in Brussels, with Nick Woltemade and Harvey Barnes on the scoresheet either side of two Anthony Gordon penalties.

Elanga’s cross into the box helped spark the move that led to Woltemade’s opener, before he was brought down in the area by Union SG defender Fedde Leysen. Gordon converted the resulting penalty to double the lead.

Elanga, who was later replaced by Barnes in the 73rd minute, watched on as the substitute wrapped up the scoring with a composed finish just seven minutes after coming on.

Recognition from UEFA

Despite not yet registering an official goal or assist since his £55 million summer move from Nottingham Forest, Elanga’s direct involvement on the night was enough to earn UEFA’s Player of the Match award.

Reflecting on the recognition, Elanga said:

“I’m happy with the award, it’s always special to get recognition but this was thanks to the team, really.

This was a very important win for us. Not just the three points but also mentally. It was a group effort and it shows we have a good selection of players. Even the substitutes made an impact. It’s good for our morale.”

Howe praises Elanga’s progress

Head coach Eddie Howe described the performance as another step forward for the winger, following his lively display in Newcastle’s previous Champions League outing against Barcelona.

“I think he’s had his moments in every game that he’s played, and they’re very similar,” Howe said. “Against Barcelona, he almost created two goals with very similar movements to what he did today.

He is quick, direct, strong one v one, and I think any full-back who plays against him will feel his threat.

It’s about him continuing to grow into our team, learning how his team-mates want the ball and adapting. I thought it was a step forward again for him today. I was very pleased with his effort, what he’s giving the team, and of course, he won a crucial penalty for us at a key stage.”

UEFA’s explanation

UEFA confirmed their decision to name Elanga as Player of the Match, despite Gordon scoring twice and Woltemade netting his third goal in four starts. Sandro Tonali and Malick Thiaw also received praise, but Elanga’s influence proved decisive.

In a statement, UEFA’s Technical Observer Group said:

“He had a great first half, was really positive and it was always a treat to watch him when he got the ball. He was heavily involved in the first two goals to settle this game.”

Elanga will now turn his attention back to the Premier League, as Newcastle prepare to face his former club Nottingham Forest on Sunday.