Joao Pedro denies Newcastle victory with second half equaliser for Chelsea

Joao Pedro was the hero for Chelsea as they fought back from a 2-goal deficit to draw 2-2 against Newcastle at Saint James Park in the Match-Day 17 of the premier league, Softfootball reports.

The Blues defeated Everton 2-0 last weekend at Stamford Bridge to stay in the top four while the Magpies lost the derby 1-0 to Sunderland. So. the home side was desperate for the three points at stake.

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Nick Woltemade celebrates goal. (Photo Credit: Newcastle Media).

Chelsea hailed their spirited fightback against Newcastle United via their official X handle. They posted:

A spirited comeback.#CFC | #NEWCHE pic.twitter.com/dIhng2Hchm
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 20, 2025

Chelsea beat Cardiff 3-1 in the Carabao Cup to make the semi-final and entered the encounter full of confidence. Te Blues were determined to chase down third placed Aston Villa in the race for UEFA Champions League qualification.

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St James’ Park was rocking inside the first four minutes as German striker Nick Woltemade put Newcastle ahead after receiving a pass from Anthony Gordon. Eddie Howe’s men dominated the match and soon got a second goal as Woltemade made it 2-0 with another pass from England international, Gordon as the first half finished with the Magpies having the advantage.

Reece James celebrates goal with teammates. (Photo Credit: Chelsea Media).

However, no premier league side have dropped more points from winning positions in the Premier League than Newcastle, the record stand at 13 times. Chelsea captain Reece James scored with a pinpoint 25-yard free-kick just a few minutes into the second half as the home fans became nervy.

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Newcastle felt they deserved a penalty after Trevoh Chalobah bodychecked Anthony Gordon inside the box but the referee and VAR overlooked it. Chelsea got the equaliser for Chelsea as former Brighton forward, Joao Pedro as he slotted the ball past Aaron Ramsdale after capitalising on a slip from defender Malick Thiaw.

Pedro Neto and Joao Pedro at Saint James Park. (Photo Credit: Chelsea Media).

It set up a grandstand finish as the game became increasingly stretched but Harvey Barnes missed a good chance to restore Newcastle’s lead when he missed a very good chance from close range as the match ended 2-2.