A thrilling London derby is set to kick off Gameweek 5 of the 2024/25 Premier League season, as Chelsea make the short journey across the capital to face West Ham United at London Stadium. Both teams are adjusting under new managers this season, with Julen Lopetegui in charge of West Ham and Enzo Maresca at the helm of Chelsea. The two sides have had mixed starts to the campaign, and this fixture promises to be crucial as they look to gain momentum.
With Jambobet offering enticing odds, predictions for this matchup suggest an exciting contest, with key betting options like “Both Teams to Score” (Goal-Goal) and “Over 2.5 Goals” on the table. Here’s a full preview of the match, including team lineups, betting tips, and score predictions.
Match Overview: West Ham vs Chelsea
- Date: Saturday, 21 September 2024
- Kick-off Time: 12:30 BST / 07:30 ET / 04:30 PT
- Location: London Stadium, London
- Referee: Samuel Barrott
- VAR: Stuart Attwell
West Ham enter this fixture off the back of a 1-1 draw against Fulham, while the blues registered a 1-0 win over Bournemouth. The Blues sit three points ahead of the Hammers in the league table, making this a must-win for West Ham to close the gap. Chelsea, meanwhile, will be looking to secure another victory and build on their promising start under Maresca.
Head-to-Head Record
In their last five meetings, the blues have had the upper hand, winning three of those encounters, while West Ham have only managed one victory. Their most recent clash in May 2024 saw Chelsea demolish West Ham 5-0, but much has changed since then with new managers and several squad changes.
- Last Five Matches:
- West Ham: 1 win
- Chelsea: 3 wins
- Draws: 1
- Last Meeting: Chelsea 5-0 West Ham (Premier League), May 2024
West Ham’s Recent Form
- Fulham 1-1 West Ham – 14th September 2024
- West Ham 1-3 Man City – 31st August 2024
- West Ham 1-0 Bournemouth – 28th August 2024
- Crystal Palace 0-2 West Ham – 24th August 2024
- West Ham 1-2 Aston Villa – 17th August 2024
Julen Lopetegui’s side has experienced a mix of results, including a solid 2-0 win over Crystal Palace but also a heavy defeat to Manchester City. Their performance has been inconsistent, but they will aim to find some rhythm against Chelsea.
Chelsea’s Recent Form
- Bournemouth 0-1 Chelsea – 14th September 2024
- Chelsea 1-1 Crystal Palace – 1st September 2024
- Servette 2-1 Chelsea – 29th August 2024 (Europa League)
- Wolves 2-6 Chelsea – 25th August 2024
- Chelsea 2-0 Servette – 22nd August 2024 (Europa League)
Under Enzo Maresca, the blues have shown glimpses of promise, including an emphatic 6-2 win over Wolves. However, they have struggled to find consistent goals, with only three goals scored in their last three Premier League games.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
West Ham Team News
West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui faces injury concerns over key players. Emerson Palmieri could miss the match due to a minor knock, while Niclas Fullkrug is unlikely to make his full Premier League debut due to fitness concerns. Danny Ings, who scored a crucial equalizer in the draw against Fulham, may remain on the bench, with Jarrod Bowen likely starting up front.
- Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Kilman, Emerson; Rodriguez, Alvarez; Kudus, Paqueta, Summerville; Bowen
Chelsea Team News
Chelsea continue to deal with injury setbacks, particularly at right-back, where Reece James and Malo Gusto remain sidelined. Axel Disasi is expected to continue in that position. Midfielder Romeo Lavia is also a doubt due to a hamstring issue. Jadon Sancho, who played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s win over Bournemouth, could earn his first start in a Blues shirt, likely replacing Pedro Neto in the starting XI.
- Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Sanchez; Disasi, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson
Jambobet Predictions and Betting Tips
With the match expected to be a close contest, Jambobet’s betting odds highlight several enticing markets:
1. Both Teams to Score (Goal-Goal)
West Ham have struggled defensively, while the blues have shown vulnerability in defense as well. Both teams are expected to find the back of the net in this encounter, making the “Both Teams to Score” (Goal-Goal) market a strong option for punters.
- Jambobet Prediction: Back “Both Teams to Score” (Goal-Goal).
2. Over 2.5 Goals
Given the attacking talent on display from both sides, including players like Jarrod Bowen and Jadon Sancho, this match has the potential for goals. West Ham will be looking to capitalize on Chelsea’s defensive frailties, while the Blues will aim to be clinical in front of goal.
- Jambobet Prediction: Bet on “Over 2.5 Goals.”
3. Match Result Prediction
The Blues enter the match as slight favorites due to their superior position in the table and recent form. However, West Ham will not be pushovers, especially at home. While a draw is a possible outcome, Chelsea’s attacking depth could see them edge the game.
- Jambobet Prediction: West Ham 1-2 Chelsea.
Key Players to Watch
West Ham: Jarrod Bowen
Bowen is West Ham’s main attacking threat, having shown consistency in both domestic and European competitions. He will likely be the focal point of West Ham’s forward play, particularly if Niclas Fullkrug remains sidelined. Bowen’s ability to press high and finish clinically makes him the player to watch for the Hammers.
Chelsea: Jadon Sancho
Sancho has been gradually working his way back to full fitness and form, and his recent performance against Bournemouth showed glimpses of the quality he can offer. Should he start, Sancho’s creativity and pace will be key in Chelsea’s attacking efforts. The England international will be aiming to impress and secure his spot in Maresca’s starting XI.
West Ham vs Chelsea: Match Prediction
Both West Ham and Chelsea will come into this match with different objectives, but the same desire to collect three points. West Ham’s home advantage and Chelsea’s form make this a difficult game to call. While West Ham may frustrate their visitors with organized defensive play, Chelsea’s attacking firepower could prove decisive.
- Final Score Prediction: West Ham 1-2 Chelsea
Conclusion
The West Ham vs Chelsea clash in Gameweek 5 promises to be an exciting London derby, with both teams seeking to improve their Premier League standing. Chelsea head into the game as slight favorites, but West Ham have shown they can be a tough opponent, especially at London Stadium. With the added excitement of Jambobet predictions, this is a match worth following for bettors and fans alike.
Whether it’s betting on “Both Teams to Score” or “Over 2.5 Goals,” Jambobet provides a variety of enticing markets for this Premier League showdown. Stay tuned for what promises to be an action-packed affair in the capital!
ALSO READ:Crystal Palace vs Manchester United Preview: Lineups, Predictions, and Jambobet Betting Tips