Newcastle United squandered a two-goal advantage as Chelsea staged a second-half comeback to earn a 2-2 draw in a thrilling Premier League clash at St James’ Park on December 20, 2025.

Nick Woltemade starred for the hosts, scoring twice within the opening 20 minutes. He opened the scoring in the fourth minute by pouncing on a loose ball and doubled his tally shortly after, calmly finishing after Chelsea failed to clear their lines. Newcastle thought they had added a third midway through the first half, but the effort was ruled out, while Chelsea’s Neto was denied by a handball decision just before halftime. Woltemade nearly completed a hat-trick before the break, but his effort went wide.

Chelsea came out with renewed urgency in the second half. Reece James sparked the comeback four minutes after the restart, curling a stunning free-kick from 25 yards past Aaron Ramsdale to make it 2-1. The goal shifted momentum, with Chelsea pressing higher and putting Newcastle under pressure. Newcastle survived a nervy moment when a potential penalty appeal was dismissed, while Ramsdale made a crucial save to deny Neto.

The equaliser arrived in the 66th minute when João Pedro kept his composure in a one-on-one situation to slot past Ramsdale, leveling the score at 2-2. Both teams had chances to snatch all three points in the closing stages, with Harvey Barnes volleying wide for Newcastle and Chelsea continuing to probe without success.

The draw leaves Chelsea fourth in the league, while Newcastle remain just outside the top half after another frustrating home outing.