Chelsea vs Newcastle: Football Prediction & Betting Tips. England – Premier League
The Premier League curtain-dropper features an intriguing bout at the iconic Stamford Bridge, where a struggling Chelsea, rooted at the 12th position, is up against a high-flying Newcastle, with their sights firmly set on a third-place finish. Their recent 4-1 capitulation against Manchester United has placed Chelsea in an unenviable position, marking one of the lowest points of a season already marred by disappointment.
The Final Countdown: Chelsea’s Struggles and Newcastle’s Aspirations
For Chelsea, a spot higher is the best they can aim for, a far cry from their lofty ambitions at the start of the season. A grim reality has set in for Frank Lampard’s men after a torrid run of one victory in their last eleven league outings. For Stamford Bridge’s faithful, optimism is a luxury as the Pensioners have failed to secure a win in their previous six home league encounters, sharing the spoils thrice while succumbing to defeat in the remaining fixtures.
On the other end of the spectrum, Newcastle is thriving under Eddie Howe’s astute guidance, buoyed by their recent Champions League qualification after a goalless draw against Leicester. The Magpies enter this clash with a realistic chance of leapfrogging Manchester United to clinch third spot, provided the Red Devils falter against Fulham. Exhibiting an impressive run of two losses in their past 13 league matches, winning nine, and drawing twice, they remain a solid defensive unit, leaking only 32 goals. Their excellent away form, featuring just one defeat in their last six away league matches, suggests a high level of confidence and ambition to conclude the season with a flourish.
Chelsea vs Newcastle: The Battle of Forms
Chelsea’s recent 4-1 rout at the hands of Manchester United epitomises their alarming slump, with eight losses in their last ten outings across all competitions. Their Premier League form doesn’t offer a glimmer of hope either, having secured just one win in their last eleven matches, interspersed with three draws and seven defeats. The Blues’ home fortress of Stamford Bridge has offered little consolation, failing to witness a victory in their last six league contests.
On the contrary, Newcastle is basking in an exceptional run of form. With a tally of four victories and two draws in their last seven matches, their only stumble was against Arsenal. Their away form mirrors their overall performance, boasting four wins and a draw in their last six league travels, with a solitary defeat against Aston Villa.
Squad Analysis: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Absences
In terms of personnel, Chelsea is grappling with a mounting injury crisis. No less than nine players, including the likes of Raheem Sterling, Armando Broja, Reece James, M’Golo Kante, Ben Chilwell, and Mason Mount, will be absent. Meanwhile, Mateo Kovacic is under a cloud of doubt and awaits a fitness assessment.
Newcastle, while not as severely impacted, will miss key players including goalkeeper Nick Pope, marking Martin Dubravka’s first league start of the season. Joe Willock, Joelinton, Emil Krafth, Jamaal Lascelles, and Matt Ritchie also join the injury list, depriving the Magpies of crucial firepower.
Key Points to Consider: An Exciting Encounter Ahead
The encounter promises goals, as both teams have scored in four of Chelsea’s last five Premier League games. Chelsea’s porous defence, conceding two goals in six of their last seven home matches, could play into Newcastle’s hands. Moreover, nine of Newcastle’s last 13 matches have seen both teams netting goals, indicating an open, attack-minded game could be in store.
Despite their superior form, Newcastle’s away record highlights a troubling trend – their failure to keep a clean sheet in their last nine away league fixtures. Thus, the clash against Chelsea might not be as straightforward as it seems on paper.
Conclusion
While Chelsea aims to salvage some pride, Newcastle is gunning for an improbable third-place finish, making this encounter a must-watch for any football enthusiast. As we eagerly await the face-off, let’s conclude with a call to action. If you’re interested in betting on this match or others, visit our best bookmakers rating for sports betting. Place your bets wisely and enjoy the thrill of the beautiful game!