Chelsea could face Newcastle in the next round of the Champions League, and will no doubt be worried by the attacking performance of Eddie Howe’s side against Qarabag.
It is likely to be the Magpies or PSG in the Round of 16, and the Blues should be quietly confident if they face the Ligue 1 side.
However, Newcastle’s 6-1 win against Qarabag was a huge change from when Chelsea met the same side in the group stages. They were held to a 2-2 draw in Azerbaijan.
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Chelsea must be fearful of Anthony Gordon for potential Champions League Round of 16 tie
One of the most notable factors of last night’s game was Anthony Gordon scoring four times, making it 10 goals in the Champions League for him so far.
Blues fans will be well aware of how dangerous the England international is to them based on his previous performances against them in the Premier League.
He has two goals and three assists against the Blues, including setting up Nick Woltermade at St. James’ Park in the 2-2 draw earlier this season.
Gordon played in a central striker role against Qarabag, and led a press that could cause serious problems for Chelsea if they are to face them.
Liam Rosenior’s style of play predominantly revolves around building up from the back, and they will still be without their best ball progressor.
Levi Colwill is not expected to feature again this season, and the pressure will be on whoever out of Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah or Josh Acheampong to be up to the task against a high-pressing Newcastle.
Chelsea’s recent record against Newcastle
Chelsea are the clear winners when it comes to this matchup throughout history. They have 81 wins from the 180 meetings.
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Recently though, the Blues have not found things so easy. They have won just three of their last nine meetings against them, and none since March of 2024.
The two sides have never met in Europe, but Chelsea can at least take positivity from their draw against them earlier this season.
After falling 2-0 behind in the first half, they produced a spirited fightback to draw 2-2, with Reece James and Joao Pedro scoring.
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