The EFL Cup quarter-final on December 19, 2023, features a thrilling matchup as Chelsea hosts Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge 9 pm WAT.
Recent Form
Chelsea: Mauricio Pochettino's team recently won against Sheffield United, showing signs of recovery after defeats to Everton and Manchester United.
In the EFL Cup, Chelsea has a perfect record so far, defeating AFC Wimbledon, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Blackburn. Their overall recent form includes a mix of wins, losses, and a draw.
Newcastle United: Under Eddie Howe, Newcastle bounced back from a European exit and a losing streak with a win over Fulham.
They have eliminated Manchester United and Manchester City from the EFL Cup this season. Their recent form also includes a mix of results similar to Chelsea.
Chelsea:
Key Players: Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, Benoit Badiashile, Raheem Sterling
Possible Lineup: Petrovic; Gusto, Disasi, Badiashile, Maatsen; Caicedo, Fernandez; Sterling, Gallagher, Palmer; Broja
Newcastle United:
Key Players: Raul Jimenez, Lewis Miley, Miguel Almiron, Dan Burn
Possible Lineup: Dubravka; Krafth, Lascelles, Botman, Burn; Miley, Guimaraes, Longstaff; Ritchie, Wilson, Almiron
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Injuries and Suspensions
Chelsea: Several players including Wesley Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Reece James are sidelined due to injuries.
Newcastle United: Joelinton, Fabian Schar, and others are out with injuries or suspensions, adding to Newcastle's fitness woes.
Head-to-Head Record
Chelsea and Newcastle United have a long history, with Chelsea leading with 78 wins, while Newcastle United has 56 wins, and 40 games have ended in draws.
Analysis and Prediction
Playing Styles and Tactics:
Chelsea, under Pochettino, is likely to employ a tactical approach focused on control and gradual build-up.
Newcastle, managed by Eddie Howe, might play more dynamically, looking to exploit spaces with quick transitions.
Betting Tips: Given both teams' capability to score, betting on over 2.5 goals might be a good tip.
Match Outcome Prediction: Chelsea might have the upper hand, especially playing at home, with a predicted scoreline of Chelsea 2-1 Newcastle United.
Time and Where to watch
The match will be broadcast on various sports channels and streaming platforms covering the EFL Cup. Fans can tune in to enjoy what promises to be an engaging and competitive encounter.
The match time is 9pm WAT and for Nigerian viewers, it's best to check local sports channels for live coverage closer to the match, like SuperSports