Newcastle United is set to face Chelsea in a pivotal matchup that kicks off the 17th match week of the Premier League season at St. James’ Park. Both teams have been active in December, each playing five matches leading up to this encounter. Notably, both clubs achieved victories in the EFL Cup quarterfinals earlier this week, securing their spots in the semifinals. Newcastle triumphed over Fulham with a score of 2-1, thanks to goals from Yoane Wissa and Lewis Miley, while Chelsea defeated Cardiff City, highlighted by a brace from Alejandro Garnacho and a goal from Pedro Neto.
In the current Premier League standings, Newcastle United occupies the 12th position with 22 points, achieved through six wins, four draws, and six losses. Their recent form has included a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Sunderland in their last league outing. Conversely, Chelsea is enjoying a stronger position, sitting 4th in the league with 28 points, bolstered by a record of eight wins, four draws, and four losses. Their latest performance saw them claim a 2-0 home win against Everton, featuring goals from Cole Palmer and Malo Gusto.
The last encounter between Newcastle United and Chelsea occurred on May 11, 2025, where Newcastle emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, thanks to goals from Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.
Fans eager to watch the upcoming match will find it kicking off at 7:30 a.m. ET (4:30 a.m. PT) in the United States and at 12:30 p.m. local time in Newcastle. It will be broadcasted on various platforms including USA Network, NBC Sports app, UNIVERSE NOW in the U.S., and TNT Sports 1, TNT Sports Ultimate, and Discovery+ in the UK.
The expected lineups feature Newcastle United’s Aaron Ramsdale in goal, supported by defenders Lewis Hall, Fabian Shar, Maick Thiaw, and Lewis Miley. Midfielders include Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes, and Sandro Tonali, while the forward line boasts Anthony Gordon, Nick Woltemade, and Jacob Murphy. Chelsea plans to field Robert Sanchez as goalkeeper, with defenders Marc Cucurella, Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, and Reece James protecting their net. Midfielders Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, and Cole Palmer will aim to control the game, while Alejandro Garnacho, Joao Pedro, and Pedro Neto complete their attacking trio.
This exciting matchup not only holds significance in the league standings but also promises to be an entertaining display of talent as both teams aim to capitalize on their recent successes.