Mykhailo Mudryk’s sensational solo goal sparked Chelsea’s hopes of qualifying for Europe via the Premier League alive with a 3-2 victory over Newcastle at Stamford Bridge.
With the score at 2-1 late in the second half, Mudryk’s moment of brilliance, seizing the ball from Conor Gallagher and evading defender Fabian Schar before rounding the goalkeeper and slotting home, decisively tipped the match in Chelsea’s favor.
Premier League goal number 1️⃣1️⃣ for our Cole! 🥶 #CFC | #CheNew pic.twitter.com/CnnuknVZao
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) March 12, 2024
The win marked a significant progression for Mauricio Pochettino’s side, who have often let balanced contests slip away from them. Nicolas Jackson opened the scoring for Chelsea with a clever backheeled finish, before Alexander Isak equalized for Newcastle just before halftime. Cole Palmer restored Chelsea’s lead with a superb long-range strike.
An audacious flick. 😮💨#CFC | #CheNew pic.twitter.com/iX46vZz09Q
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) March 12, 2024
Despite Mudryk’s goal seemingly sealing the victory, Jacob Murphy’s 90th-minute goal made Chelsea sweat, but they held on for a well-deserved win.
The victory keeps European qualification hopes alive for Chelsea, who now sit in 11th place. European qualification through the league remains within reach for Chelsea, with this win bringing them within four points of seventh-place West Ham with a game in hand.
The match saw both teams create chances, with Chelsea looking the more confident side on the ball. Despite some nervy moments, Mudryk’s moment of magic ensured a positive end to a challenging season for Chelsea.