Newcastle has advanced in the League Cup but hasn’t exactly been dominant, narrowly edging past Nottingham Forest with a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw and winning over Wimbledon 1-0. In the Premier League, their form has been inconsistent.
After an unbeaten run in their first four games, they hit a rough patch with two draws and a loss just before the international break. Recently, they faced off against Brighton and Chelsea in back-to-back league matches.
Chelsea, who finished sixth in the league last season, needed only one League Cup game to progress, where they comfortably defeated Barrow 5-0.
This season, they aim to reestablish themselves as strong contenders. Despite opening with a 0-2 loss to Manchester City, they bounced back with six unbeaten games, tallying four wins and two draws.
Following the international break, Chelsea played Liverpool and Newcastle in the league, and in Europe, they launched their Conference League campaign with a win against La Gantoise, with an upcoming trip to Panathinaikos.
For Newcastle, key players like defender Sven Botman, strikers Isak and Wilson, midfielder Miley, and reserve defender Lascelles are sidelined. Coach Eddie Howe may turn to mainstays like Bruno Guimaraes, Tonali, Barnes, and Gordon for this League Cup fixture.
Chelsea will be without their captain Reece James and newcomer striker Kellyman due to injuries. Still, they have a deep bench, allowing opportunities for players like Pedro Neto, Mudryk, Joao Felix, and Nkunku to get playing time.
Cole Palmer, who has been in excellent form with six goals and five assists in the league, will also be available.
Prediction
Newcastle’s recent home form has been underwhelming, with only two wins in their last 14 league outings, including four losses in their last six at St. James’ Park.
Chelsea, on the other hand, has won eight of their last 13 League Cup fixtures and has significantly bolstered their squad this summer.
Prediction: Newcastle 0 – 2 Chelsea
