Newcastle United moved within touching distance of UEFA Champions League qualification with a vital 2-0 win over 10-man Chelsea at a buzzing St James’ Park.
The Magpies, level on 63 points with Chelsea at the start of the day, struck early when Sandro Tonali turned in a close-range finish just two minutes into the match.
The visitors’ hopes suffered a further blow as striker Nicolas Jackson received a straight red card for a reckless forearm challenge on Sven Botman ten minutes before half-time.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca reshuffled his side with Cole Palmer deployed as a false nine, sparking a spirited second-half display.
However, Newcastle’s goalkeeper Nick Pope produced superb saves to deny Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernandez, while Reece James also squandered a golden opportunity to equalize.
Newcastle sealed the win in stoppage time when Bruno Guimaraes’ deflected strike looped over Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez, sparking wild celebrations.
The win lifts Eddie Howe’s men to third in the table, with just two matches remaining—away at Arsenal and home to Everton. With momentum on their side, the Magpies now control their destiny in the race for Europe.
Having already lifted the Carabao Cup in March—Newcastle’s first domestic trophy since 1955—the club is enjoying a dream season.
With one hand on a Champions League spot, the Toon Army can almost taste elite European nights returning to Tyneside.
For Chelsea, the defeat leaves their top-four hopes in serious jeopardy ahead of a tough run-in.
