Chelsea’s Champions League bid under threat after Newcastle defeat

Chelsea’s hopes of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League suffered a major setback following their narrow 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United yesterday.

The only goal of the match came in the 18th minute following a swift Magpies’ attack.

Tino Livramento’s defence-splitting pass played Joe Willock through on goal before squaring the ball for Anthony Gordon to tap home.

With the Premier League reaching the run-in, every point has become crucial in the race for Champions League qualification, making the defeat a costly blow for the Blues.

The defeat also highlighted Chelsea’s problem of bossing possession and failing to create clear-cut chances.

Liam Rosenior’s side came into the game under pressure following their midweek heavy Champions League defeat at Paris Saint-Germain.

Chelsea are fifth in the Premier League standings, three points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa with a game in hand. However, Villa visit third-placed Manchester United today, and the gap could widen.

Sixth-placed Liverpool could leapfrog Chelsea when they host relegation-threatened Tottenham Hotspur today, leaving the Blues in a tight spot heading into the final eight games.

Chelsea’s defensive lapses, which allowed Gordon to score, have repeatedly cost them points this campaign.

The Blues must now respond quickly, with little room for further mistakes in the race for Champions League football.

With several difficult fixtures ahead, Chelsea need to sharpen up in attack and remain solid defensively if they are to keep their top-four hopes alive in the Premier League.