Chelsea will be hoping to build on their impressive win over Morecambe as they face Bournemouth in a crucial Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening.
Both teams head into the encounter with confidence, having secured emphatic victories in their respective FA Cup third-round matches. Here’s what to expect from the matchup:
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Chelsea thrashed Morecambe 5-0 over the weekend, with goals from Tosin Adarabioyo, Joao Felix, and Christopher Nkunku showcasing their attacking prowess.
However, their league form has been inconsistent, with just two points from their last four Premier League matches. Enzo Maresca’s side currently sits in the top four, but a win is vital to maintain their position amidst pressure from teams like Newcastle United, Manchester City, and Bournemouth.
Bournemouth, under the guidance of Andoni Iraola, extended their unbeaten run to nine matches in all competitions with a 5-1 demolition of West Bromwich Albion.
The Cherries have been in fine form, particularly on the road, where they have scored multiple goals in each of their last five Premier League away games.
Head-to-Head
Chelsea holds the upper hand in recent encounters, with Bournemouth winless in their last six meetings. The most recent clash saw Chelsea secure a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a Christopher Nkunku strike.
Team News
Chelsea
Enzo Maresca is expected to make several changes from the side that faced Morecambe. Key absentees include Wesley Fofana (hamstring), Benoit Badiashile (thigh), and Mykhaylo Mudryk (suspended). Noni Madueke is doubtful due to illness, but stars like Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, and Nicolas Jackson are set to return.
Predicted XI:
Sánchez; Gusto, Acheampong, Colwill, Cucurella; Fernández, Caicedo; Palmer, Sancho, Neto; Jackson.
Bournemouth
Bournemouth has their own injury concerns, with Enes Unal (knee), Marcos Senesi (thigh), and Luis Sinisterra (thigh) among the sidelined players. Despite these setbacks, Dango Ouattara and Antoine Semenyo are likely to lead the attack after their strong recent performances.
Predicted XI:
Travers; Hill, Zabarnyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Christie, Cook; Brooks, Kluivert, Ouattara; Semenyo.
Prediction
Chelsea’s home advantage and the return of their first-choice lineup should help them overcome Bournemouth, despite the Cherries’ impressive form. However, Bournemouth’s knack for scoring goals on the road means they could make it a competitive contest.
Prediction: Chelsea 3-1 Bournemouth.
The match promises excitement as both teams seek crucial points in their respective battles for European qualification. Stamford Bridge will undoubtedly be the stage for a high-stakes encounter.
