Odds courtesy of TonyBet.
Chelsea vs Newcastle United Odds
Chelsea is a -120 home favorite at soccer betting sportsbooks. Newcastle returns as a +295 underdog, while a draw is priced at +309 odds.
However, the Magpies’ long odds don’t exactly line up with recent meetings. They’ve beaten the Blues twice in their previous three affairs, with the reverse fixture in December finishing 2-2 at St. James’ Park.
Chelsea vs Newcastle United Analysis
The Blues have had a topsy-turvy campaign that’s been far from smooth. Enzo Maresca was dismissed at the beginning of the year in favor of Liam Rosenoir, who has managed to have success at times. But it’s been a difficult project. Chelsea is three points out of fourth place in the Premier League, and they were enjoying a two-game winning run across all competitions before Wednesday’s embarrassing loss in the French capital.
Early on, it looked like the Blues had a chance of finding a positive result in the first leg. But after Enzo Fernandez equalized in the second half, PSG proceeded to score three unanswered goals, putting Chelsea is a brutal hole heading into the second leg in London. Regardless, the Blues must turn the page because they need a result on Saturday. They’re enjoying a three-game unbeaten run in the Premier League, but two of those matches ended level.
While Newcastle may be performing well in the Champions League, it’s been a very different story in the Premier League. Eddie Howe’s side is sitting in 12th spot in the top flight, and a whole nine points out of the top six. The Magpies have an 11-6-12 record, and they’ve conceded more goals than they've scored.
With Europe likely out of the question, Newcastle’s only chance at glory this term is in the UCL, where they just gave Barcelona a serious run for their money in the first leg of the Round of 16 on Tuesday. That being said, fighting their way into the top-10 of the EPL table remains a possibility. The visitors did grab an impressive win in their last Premier League fixture, beating in-form Manchester United.
Chelsea vs Newcastle United Injury News
Enzo Maresca’s side are close to full strength heading into the weekend, with Levi Colwill remaining the only confirmed long-term absentee due to a knee injury. There is some positive news, however, as both Estevao Willian and Jamie Gittens are nearing returns and could feature in some capacity if they pass late fitness tests, giving Chelsea additional attacking depth.
Newcastle will be without several key players for Saturday’s trip to Stamford Bridge. Lewis Miley is progressing well in his recovery but the match is expected to come too soon for the young midfielder, with a return likely within the next week to 10 days. Meanwhile, Fabian Schar (ankle), Bruno Guimaraes (thigh) and Emil Krafth (knee) are all confirmed absentees for Eddie Howe’s side.
Chelsea vs Newcastle United Picks
The draw with Barcelona will instill serious confidence into Newcastle, and I believe they will carry that into Saturday’s clash. While Chelsea will also be hungry to respond, the Magpies should be to secure a draw.
Pick: Draw +309/TonyBet
