Goal scorer João Pedro expressed satisfaction with Chelsea's second-half performance against Newcastle United. At St. James' Park, Chelsea trailed by two goals but eventually equalized 2-2, securing a point. After a poor start with conceding several goals, captain Reece James ignited a comeback early in the second half with a brilliant long-range free-kick.  

João Pedro then capitalized on his chance, combining with goalkeeper Robert Sanchez to equalize. Although Chelsea had chances to win late in the game, they ultimately failed to capitalize. Pedro Neto, Alejandro Ganacho, and the Brazilian striker all came close to scoring.  

Nevertheless, the 24-year-old was satisfied with the point, believing the team could have scored more if they had maintained their energy in the second half. João Pedro said, "We could have started better in the first half, but in the second half we showed our character and fought hard for three points."  

“I think the team created a lot of chances but didn’t capitalize on them all. Although we didn’t lose, we need to learn from this, improve our performance, and prepare for the next few games. I felt we started the first half a bit slowly, and this type of game requires winning more second balls. We did better in that aspect in the second half, and winning those goals helped us create more attacking opportunities. We started faster and more powerfully, and that’s why we eventually scored.”  

João Pedro credited captain Reece James for the team's comeback victory, emphasizing that James' goal was key to turning the tide. He stated, "After Reece James scored, we realized we still had a chance to win. It was a very important goal; the opponent took the lead early, making things very difficult, but his goal gave the team confidence and motivation."  

Besides Reece James's brilliant free-kick, Chelsea fans also witnessed a standout performance from João Pedro. He headed in a long pass from Alexis Sanchez to equalize. Pedro stated that the goal was part of a tactical setup they had previously practiced.  

João Pedro said: "Ever since the game against Atalanta, the coach has reminded me to prepare for this type of pass in advance. Because as long as I can get the ball, I can be in a very advantageous position, and today's situation was exactly like that."  

“I had Robert pass me a long ball because I was in a one-on-one situation. I knew that as long as I controlled the ball, I could get close to the goal. I did it and scored in a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper.”  

"The fans want us to win every game. Although we didn't win today, it was a very exciting game, and it's commendable to get a point against such a strong opponent away from home. I also wish the fans a Merry Christmas and hope they have a wonderful holiday season."