Chelsea host high-flying Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night in a Premier League encounter that holds significant stakes for both sides.
Enzo Maresca’s men are desperate for a league win after a four-game drought, while Bournemouth, riding high under Andoni Iraola, could leapfrog the Blues with a victory.
Chelsea’s Premier League campaign has taken a hit recently. Once touted as potential title contenders, the Blues find themselves in fourth place after a string of disappointing results. Losses to Fulham and Ipswich, coupled with draws against Everton and Crystal Palace, have left fans questioning the team’s consistency.
However, a 5-0 demolition of Morecambe in the FA Cup offered a glimmer of hope. Key players like Joao Felix and Tosin Adarabioyo showcased their quality, each scoring twice. Maresca will be hoping this dominant display sparks a resurgence as the team returns to league action.
Bournemouth have been one of the Premier League’s standout performers this season. Currently sitting seventh, the Cherries have defied expectations under Iraola. Despite a slew of injuries, including to star players Enes Unal and Evanilson, they continue to deliver impressive results.
Their 5-1 FA Cup thrashing of West Brom at the weekend is a testament to their resilience. The Cherries’ European aspirations are alive and well, but a tough test awaits them in west London.
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Team News and Predicted Lineups
Chelsea
Chelsea’s squad has been bolstered by the return of Reece James and Romeo Lavia, both of whom featured in the FA Cup win. While Noni Madueke could make a comeback after illness, the Blues remain without Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Mykhaylo Mudryk, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson.
Bournemouth
Injuries have hit Bournemouth hard, with Enes Unal and Evanilson sidelined alongside Alex Scott, Julian Araujo, Marcos Senesi, Adam Smith, Luis Sinisterra, and Marcus Tavernier. Kepa Arrizabalaga is also ineligible to face his parent club, meaning Mark Travers will start in goal.
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Travers; Aarons, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Christie, Cook; Brooks, Kluivert, Ouattara; Semenyo.
Key Tactical Battles
1. Chelsea’s Midfield Duo vs Bournemouth’s Press
Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo will need to dictate the tempo against Bournemouth’s high-energy midfield. The Blues’ ability to control possession could nullify Bournemouth’s pressing game.
2. Bournemouth’s Counterattacks
With Antoine Semenyo leading the line, Bournemouth’s pace in transition could trouble Chelsea’s backline. The Cherries’ wide players, Brooks and Ouattara, will look to exploit gaps left by Chelsea’s attacking full-backs.
3. Joao Felix’s Creativity
Felix’s ability to unlock defenses will be crucial. If the Portuguese playmaker is given time and space, he could create numerous chances for Nicolas Jackson.
Score Prediction: Chelsea 2-0 Bournemouth
While Bournemouth’s form has been impressive, their mounting injury list might finally catch up with them. Chelsea’s squad depth and home advantage give them the edge in this encounter. Expect a solid defensive display and moments of brilliance from Chelsea’s attacking stars.
Jambobet Prediction: Bet on Chelsea to win and under 2.5 goals for a safe wager.
Where to Watch Chelsea vs Bournemouth
- UK: TNT Sports 3, discovery+
- US: Peacock
- Canada: fuboTV Canada
Chelsea’s inconsistency has made this a must-win game for Maresca’s side. A victory would not only halt their Premier League slump but also restore confidence ahead of a crucial stretch of fixtures.
For Bournemouth, this match is an opportunity to prove their resilience and stay in the hunt for European qualification. Regardless of the outcome, this clash promises to be a fascinating contest between two teams with contrasting fortunes.
