Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

As it happenedended
7 years ago

Chelsea vs Newcastle as it happened: Eden Hazard inspire comeback victory as champions close gap

Relive the drama from Saturday's Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge

Liam Corless
Saturday 02 December 2017 13:37 EST
Comments
Eden Hazard celebrates scoring Chelsea's equaliser against Newcastle United
Eden Hazard celebrates scoring Chelsea's equaliser against Newcastle United (Getty)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte believes England may require some insider information to keep Eden Hazard quiet at next summer's World Cup.

Hazard should be part of the Belgium team who face the Three Lions after the nations were paired in Group G in Friday's draw, along with Tunisia and Panama.

The 26-year-old stole the show as he returned to the Chelsea side to score twice as the reigning Premier League champions came from behind to beat Newcastle 3-1 on Saturday.

Dwight Gayle had given Newcastle a shock lead as Rafael Benitez returned to Stamford Bridge for the first time since his acrimonious six-month tenure as Blues boss in 2013.

But Chelsea hit back as Hazard levelled with a smart finish and wrapped up the points with a deft 'Panenka' penalty after Alvaro Morata had headed in to give Conte's side the lead at the interval.

Relive the drama below...

What time does it start?

The game kicks off at 12.30pm on Saturday 2 December at Stamford Bridge.

Where can I watch it?

The game will be broadcast on Sky Sports Premier League. Coverage starts at 11.30am.

It’s a big game for…

Rafa Benitez. That Newcastle have won just one game from their last nine fixtures makes for a worrying read. Nonetheless, the spirit showed by the Magpies on Tuesday night suggests Benitez still has his players all pulling in the same direction – despite the nature of some results. Even a point against Chelsea on Saturday would be considered a positive outcome for Newcastle – anything else, though, would simply add to the concern at St James’ Park.

Rafa Benitez needs a result from his men
Rafa Benitez needs a result from his men (Getty)

Remember when…

Chelsea stormed past Newcastle to send Steve McClaren’s side into the relegation zone in February 2016? The hosts romped to a 5-1 victory at the Bridge, with Pedro notably grabbing a brace.

Player to watch…

Eden Hazard. The Belgian was rested for the Swansea game but is likely to return for Saturday’s clash against Newcastle. When on form, Hazard looks unstoppable and brings a real energy to this Chelsea side that, on occasion, goes missing in his absence. With the Magpies struggling to keep clean sheets at the moment, the 26-year-old will be relishing Saturday’s game.

Eden Hazard: the man to watch
Eden Hazard: the man to watch (Getty)

Head to head…

Chelsea 5 Newcastle United 1, Premier League, February 2016

Newcastle United 2 Chelsea 2, Premier League, September 2015

Chelsea 2 Newcastle United 0, Premier League, January 2015

Form guide…

Chelsea: WDWWWL

Newcastle: DLLLLW

Odds…

Chelsea to win: 1/5

Draw: 11/2

Newcastle United: 14/1

7 years ago

Thanks for tuning in to our live coverage of Chelsea vs Newcastle. Follow the below link for regular updates from today's 3pm kick-offs, with Liverpool and Tottenham both in action.

Liam Corless2 December 2017 14:26

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in