Newcastle vs Chelsea preview, prediction, team news and head-to-head

With both teams intensely focused on securing a top-four position, this match is expected to be a closely contested affair.

Newcastle bounced back from the disappointment of their Wear-Tyne derby defeat against Sunderland by reaching the Carabao Cup semi-finals for the third time in four seasons with a 2-1 midweek victory over Fulham.

The loss to Sunderland saw the Magpies lose valuable ground in the European race, but Eddie Howe's side will look to close the four-point gap to the top six with a swift return to St James' Park, where they have won eight of their last nine games.

Chelsea, on the other hand, were able to rest key players in their Carabao Cup quarter-final win against third-tier Cardiff. Although manager Enzo Maresca needed some inspiration from big hitters left on the bench to seal the win, he will be pleased that his side has now secured back-to-back victories, recovering from a four-game winless run.

Their 2-0 win against Everton last weekend ensured they retained their top-four spot, though two consecutive away league games without a win suggest their position could be under threat this weekend.

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Recent meetings between these two clubs have been very competitive and unpredictable. Across the last five encounters, Chelsea has secured two victories, while Newcastle has won twice, with one match ending in a draw. 

The Magpies recorded a memorable 2-0 victory at St James' Park in 2025 and another 2-0 win in the EFL Cup, while Chelsea claimed a 2-1 victory in the EPL in 2024.

Chelsea have lost four of their last five visit to this venue, a run Newcastle will be desperate to continue this weekend.

Newcastle United are particularly stretched in defensive areas. Daniel Burn, Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman, Emil Krafth and Kieran Trippier are all sidelined through injury, leaving Eddie Howe with very limited options at the back. 

Goalkeeper Nick Pope also remains unavailable, further compounding their defensive issues, while striker William Osula is ruled out as he continues his recovery from injury.

Chelsea also come into the fixture with notable concerns. Mykhaylo Mudryk is suspended and will miss the match, while Levi Colwill remains sidelined, weakening Chelsea’s defensive depth.

Midfield options are reduced as Dario Essugo and Romeo Lavia are both unavailable and attacking choices are further limited with Estevão and Liam Delap out injured. 

As a result, Enzo Maresca may need to reshuffle his lineup and adjust his tactical approach to compensate for the missing personnel.

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Newcastle United (4-3-3): Ramsdale; Livramento, Thiaw, Schär, Hall; Guimarães, Tonali, Miley; Elanga, Woltemade, Gordon.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sánchez; Gusto, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; James, Fernández; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; João Pedro.

With Newcastle United boasting a formidable home record and Chelsea struggling against them, the host enter this match as slight favourites. 

However, the individual quality of the Chelsea attack could still help the Blues in this tie. We expect a tight game with both teams finding the net.