Chelsea, displaying inconsistency, face Champions League-chasing Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge, with the visitors aiming to close in on the top four.
With two games in hand, fifth-placed Tottenham sit seven points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa and 12 points clear of ninth-placed Chelsea.
Match Preview
Last weekend, Chelsea came from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Aston Villa, dominating possession with 72% and taking 21 shots, almost overcoming Unai Emery’s side.
However, it’s important to note that Mauricio Pochettino’s men suffered a 5-0 thrashing at the hands of Arsenal in their previous game, showcasing a significant difference in quality.
Despite this, the Blues have recently found success at Stamford Bridge, winning seven of their last nine home league games with only one defeat.
With just one loss in their previous 10 Premier League encounters, Chelsea will aim to disrupt their London rivals on Thursday.
As for Tottenham Hotspur, they endured a 3-2 defeat in the North London Derby on Sunday, despite controlling 63% of possession and attempting 15 shots.
This means Ange Postecoglou’s side enters Thursday’s clash on the back of consecutive defeats, having also suffered a 4-0 loss against Newcastle United.
Spurs have shown inconsistency lately, with four wins, one draw, and four defeats in their last nine Premier League outings.
It’s worth noting that Tottenham have won only one of their last seven away league games, with three draws and three losses during that period.
Head-to-Head:
Chelsea won the reverse fixture 4-1 back in November, marking their victory in seven of their last 10 Premier League meetings with Spurs.
Looking at the broader head-to-head stats, Tottenham have won just three of their previous 13 league matches against the Blues.
Team News & Updates:
Chelsea’s injury list includes Romeo Lavia, Enzo Fernandez, Christopher Nkunku, Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Malo Guston, Thiago Silva, and Robert Sanchez.
On the other hand, Tottenham is currently without Manor Solomon, Timo Werner, Destiny Udogie, Ryan Sessegnon, and Fraser Forster due to injury.
Prediction & Analysis:
With Chelsea’s attacking prowess and Tottenham’s defensive vulnerabilities, expect an entertaining encounter with goals at both ends.
The head-to-head history favors Chelsea, but Tottenham will be eager to turn the tide in this fixture.
Our prediction leans towards an exciting match with over 3.5 goals, with Chelsea edging out Tottenham in a thrilling contest at Stamford Bridge.
- Chelsea 3-1 Tottenham
