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.

Magpies handed reality check

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.

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Dortmund find Bellingham replacement

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 night long, with Dan Burn delighted he switched wings midway through the first-half. Malen was electric, firing several shots towards the Magpies goal.

Though he was not rewarded with a goal, the winger certainly made a statement that he is Dortmund's next superstar in waiting. And he put to bed concerns that the Bundesliga side have not replaced Bellingham adequately.

Pope sends Southgate message

Nick Pope missed out on a place in the England squad for the October internationals. But the keeper sent Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate a clear message that he should not be forgotten in future just 10 minutes into the game.

Dortmund broke forward through Marcel Sabitzer down their left hand side. The former Bayern star sent a ball into Donyell Malen, who fired towards goal, though Pope was able to beat it away.

His save only went as far as Niclas Fullkrug though, with the striker aiming his own shot at goal. But Pope again got down brilliantly to prevent it from going in and reminding Southgate exactly what he overlooked.

Wilson fails to seize chance

Callum Wilson has struggled to dislodge Alexander Isak as Newcastle's starting keeper. But he was given a chance to impress on Wednesday night when the Swedish international was forced off through injury just 15 minutes in.

The Englishman failed to seize his opportunity though, barely threatening the Dortmund defence. Centre-backs Mats Hummels and Nico Schlotterbeck were comfortable after Wilson entered the fray.

Indeed, it was the likes of Anthony Gordon, Miguel Almiron and even Joelinton who provided the threat for the hosts. He did have one huge chance to get on the scoresheet, but saw his effort saved despite being left unmarked a matter of yards out.

Tonali's script left unwritten

With Newcastle a goal down and losing the midfield battle, the script appeared to be written for Sandro Tonali to change the game in what was likely his final appearance for some time. The midfielder is expected to be handed a lengthy ban for illegal gambling before the weekend.

He started the clash with Dortmund on the bench, but was brought on with more than 20 minutes to go. While he had some bright moments, Tonali was unable to make a sizeable impact and Magpies fans now face an extended wait before they see him playing again.

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