Newcastle United 2-2 Chelsea Match Report: 20th Dec 25

Image credit: Premier League

St. James' Park saw Newcastle United host Chelsea in the Premier League today. The Magpies were coming into the game off the back of a 1-0 Tyne-Wear Derby defeat, while Chelsea came into the game after back-to-back wins in the league and EFL Cup.

It was a rapid start from Newcastle United, who took the lead after three minutes. Nick Woltemade, who scored an own goal helping Sunderland defeat Newcastle last week, opened the scoring this afternoon. The German striker did not settle with one goal today, as he scored his second after 21 minutes.

The Magpies were looking excellent and should have had more than two goals at half-time, with Woltemade having multiple opportunities to score his third of the game.

Half-time proved to be a turning point for Chelsea in the Northeast, as the world champions came out and started quickly to get back into the game.

Reece James stepped over a free-kick in the 49th minute and scored from range, pulling a goal back for Enzo Maresca's side. Now, the momentum was with Chelsea.

After 66 minutes, Joao Pedro capitalised on a loose ball in the Newcastle United defence and found himself through one-on-one with Aaron Ramsdale. The former Brighton forward cooly slotted home and Chelsea were level.

Eddie Howe's side were spectacular in the first-half, but Chelsea had woken up at half-time and found their rhythm in the second 45.

Reece James denied the home team a winner as he made a last ditch challenge to deny Harvey Barnes scoring the fifth goal of the match. The challenge was crucial as it seemed destined for Barnes to put the Magpies back in front.

The full-time whistle was blown and Newcastle United had drawn 2-2 with Chelsea. The game had entertainment throughout, with drama happening up to the final whistle.

Boos rang around the stadium from the home fans, who feel Reece James should have received a red card in the last minute of the match.

At the final whistle, Chelsea remained fourth, while Newcastle moved up to 11th.