Yoane Wissa marked a landmark moment in his career by scoring his first Champions League goal, giving Newcastle United an early lead against PSV Eindhoven on a memorable European night at St James’ Park.
The Congolese forward struck in the eighth minute of the group-stage encounter, converting calmly from close range to put the hosts ahead and spark celebrations inside the stadium.
Making his first start in the competition, Wissa showed composure beyond the occasion, finishing a well-constructed Newcastle move to open both the scoring on the night and his personal account in Europe’s elite club tournament.
The goal came from a flowing passage of play that underlined Newcastle’s intent from the opening whistle.
Joelinton, influential in midfield, carried the ball forward before threading a precise pass into the penalty area.
Wissa timed his movement well, controlled the ball with assurance and guided a right-footed shot into the bottom-left corner of goalkeeper Matej Kovar’s net.
The early breakthrough gave Newcastle momentum and set the tone for a high-intensity contest.
For Wissa, the strike carried significance well beyond the scoreline.
At 29, the forward was appearing in the Champions League for the first time, a milestone that crowned a steady and determined rise through the ranks of European football.
Having joined Newcastle last summer, he has worked his way into the side and has now delivered a defining moment on the continent’s biggest stage.
The goal against PSV was his second in a Newcastle shirt, but arguably the most important so far.
The moment also reflected a broader personal journey.
Wissa began his professional career in France’s lower divisions, notably with Châteauroux in the third tier, before gradually establishing himself at higher levels through consistent performances and perseverance.
His progress took him to the Premier League and now to the Champions League, where scoring at a historic ground such as St James’ Park represented the culmination of years of effort.
Newcastle, returning to Europe’s top competition after a long absence, have placed emphasis on blending experience with hunger, and Wissa’s contribution highlighted the value of that approach.
His early goal settled the home side and rewarded their positive start, while also reinforcing the belief that he can play a meaningful role at this level.
As the night unfolded, the strike remained a defining image of the match: a reminder of Newcastle’s ambition on the European stage and of a forward who seized his chance when it mattered most.
For Wissa, it was not just a goal, but a statement that his journey has reached another significant chapter.
