The upcoming clash at Stamford Bridge on Sunday between Chelsea and Brighton & Hove Albion promises an intriguing encounter as both teams kick off a packed December schedule.
Chelsea faced a humbling 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United in their last Premier League outing. Meanwhile, Brighton secured a spot in the Europa League knockout stages with a 1-0 win against AEK Athens on Thursday.
Match Preview
Despite an injury-depleted Newcastle side, Chelsea fell victim to a 4-1 loss last weekend. The Blues struggled defensively and conceded goals to Lascelles, Joelinton, and Gordon, while Reece James received a red card.
Chelsea currently holds the 10th spot in the Premier League and seeks redemption from their indifferent mid-table position.
On the other hand, Brighton’s solid defense held firm against AEK Athens in the Europa League, securing a clean sheet.
Joao Pedro’s penalty secured Brighton’s progression in Europe after a nervy 1-0 win. Their Premier League form has seen improvement with a win against Nottingham Forest last weekend, ending a six-game winless streak.
Brighton’s upcoming clash at Stamford Bridge holds significance as they aim to continue their seven-game unbeaten run, including three consecutive away wins.
The Seagulls, however, face defensive concerns, having not kept a clean sheet in the league this season.
Team News
For Chelsea, Marc Cucurella’s suspension joins Reece James’s ban, leaving the side with defensive gaps.
Malo Gusto’s return remains uncertain due to injury. Several players, including Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, and Ben Chilwell, are sidelined. Moises Caicedo may return to the midfield.
Brighton faces defensive troubles, with Lewis Dunk’s suspension compounding their injury woes. Mahmoud Dahoud serves the second game of his three-match suspension.
The team suffers several long-term injuries, including Tariq Lamptey, Ansu Fati, Pervis Estupinan, and Solly March.
Probable Lineups
Chelsea:(4-2-3-1)
Sanchez;
Disasi, Silva, Badiashile, Colwill;
Caicedo, Fernandez;
Palmer, Gallagher, Sterling;
Jackson
Brighton & Hove Albion:(4-2-3-1)
Verbruggen;
Veltman, Hinshelwood, Igor, Milner;
Gilmour, Gross;
Adingra, Pedro, Mitoma;
Ferguson
Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Brighton & Hove Albion
Despite both teams dealing with suspensions and injuries, Chelsea’s attacking prowess might exploit Brighton’s defensive vulnerabilities.
We expect a competitive match with Chelsea prevailing in a narrow victory at Stamford Bridge.
Please note that match outcomes can vary based on in-game situations and team performances.