Premier League legend gives 'huge' Newcastle prediction before Chelsea clash
Context:
Mark Lawrenson, a former Liverpool legend, has made a bold prediction for the upcoming clash between Newcastle and Chelsea at St. James’ Park, which is crucial for both teams' hopes of securing a top-five Premier League finish and a potential Champions League spot. With only goal difference separating Newcastle in fourth place from Chelsea in fifth, both teams understand the significance of a win, though it doesn't guarantee a spot in Europe's top tournament. Newcastle enters the match with confidence, having remained unbeaten at home with five consecutive wins, while Chelsea remains unbeaten in their last five matches but has struggled with away victories. Chelsea recently rotated their lineup heavily in a Conference League semi-final, whereas Newcastle is well-rested for their 46th match of the season. Lawrenson predicts a 2-1 victory for Newcastle, which could solidify their return to Europe's elite competition, while a Chelsea loss would make their final match against Nottingham Forest a critical encounter.
Dive Deeper:
Mark Lawrenson predicts a tight match between Newcastle and Chelsea, with significant implications for both teams' chances of securing a Champions League spot, as they are separated only by goal difference.
Newcastle has been in formidable form at home, winning their last five Premier League games at St. James’ Park and scoring a remarkable 18 goals in the process, giving them a psychological edge going into the match.
Chelsea, despite being unbeaten in their last five matches, has struggled to secure away victories, achieving only one recent away league win, which required a last-minute comeback against Fulham.
The recent heavy rotation in Chelsea's lineup during their Conference League semi-final could impact their performance against Newcastle, as only Marc Cucurella featured in both recent lineups.
Newcastle, having enjoyed a rest week, will be playing their 46th match of the season, and a victory could significantly enhance their chances of returning to the Champions League next season.
A loss for Chelsea could lead to a do-or-die situation in their final match against Nottingham Forest, highlighting the high stakes involved in their upcoming clash with Newcastle.
Lawrenson's prediction of a 2-1 win for Newcastle reflects his admiration for how the team has been performing and managing their fixtures, suggesting confidence in their ability to overcome Chelsea.
Former Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson has given a bold prediction about the Newcastle and Chelsea clash at St. James’ Park this Sunday
The game carries an immense importance with just three matchdays left. Newcastle and Chelsea are neck-and-neck in the race for a top-five Premier League finish and potentially a Champions League berth.
Only goal difference separates fourth-placed Newcastle and fifth-placed Chelsea. Both teams know a win here doesn’t guarantee Europe’s top tournament, but it would take them one massive step closer.
Newcastle dropped points last week in a 1-1 draw at Brighton but have been unstoppable at home. They've won five straight Premier League games at St James' Park, scoring 18 goals.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are unbeaten in their last five, but only one of those was an away league win, which was a last-gasp comeback at Fulham.
Chelsea’s Thursday night Conference League semi-final saw heavy rotation, with only Marc Cucurella featuring in both recent lineups.
Meanwhile, Newcastle, fresh off a rest week, prepare for their 46th match of the season across all competitions, with 28 wins so far.
If Chelsea lose here, their final day clash at Nottingham Forest could turn into a do-or-die scenario. For Newcastle, a win could all but seal a return to Europe’s elite competition..
Mark Lawrenson gives his prediction
Speaking ahead of the tie, Lawrenson said as quoted by THE MAG , “This is another huge game"“And what a nice, easy, trip it will be for the Chelsea fans popping up to Newcastle for midday on a Sunday! “Chelsea played on Thursday and changed everyone but, Newcastle, I just really like this team and how they go about it.
His final prediction? “Newcastle 2 Chelsea 1.”
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