The Daily Star Ireland
Chelsea, under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, have shown significant improvement this season compared to their disappointing performances over the past two years. Although no longer in contention for the Premier League title, they remain firmly in the hunt for a Champions League spot. Currently sitting 4th in the league, just ahead of 5th place, the Blues have faltered recently, going four games without a win. Their recent results include losses to Fulham (1-2) and Ipswich (0-2) and draws against Everton (0-0) and Crystal Palace (1-1). Last weekend, Chelsea took on Morecambe in an FA Cup clash.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth has been performing beyond expectations, sitting 7th in the Premier League and just three points behind Chelsea. Aiming for a potential European qualification, the Cherries are in excellent form, remaining unbeaten in their last eight league games, with five wins and three draws. Following draws with Crystal Palace (0-0) and Fulham (2-2), they secured a 1-0 victory over Everton in their most recent match. Bournemouth also played West Bromwich in the FA Cup last weekend.
Chelsea heads into this match with several key absences. Defenders Wesley Fofana and Benoît Badiashile are injured, along with promising midfielder Roméo Lavia. Additional absentees include Chukwuemeka, Dewsbury-Hall, and Kellyman, while Mykhaylo Mudryk is suspended due to doping. Cole Palmer, having an outstanding season with 13 goals and 6 assists, is expected to play a pivotal role alongside striker Nicolas Jackson, who has tallied 9 goals and 3 assists. Christopher Nkunku, despite limited league appearances, may also feature.
Bournemouth faces their own injury concerns, with key defenders Marcos Senesi, Adam Smith, and Marcos Araujo unavailable, along with backup striker Enes Ünal. The availability of wingers Luis Sinisterra and Marcus Tavernier, as well as midfielder Scott, remains uncertain. However, Bournemouth’s attack remains formidable with Dango Ouattara (3 goals, 3 assists), Justin Kluivert (6 goals, 2 assists), Antoine Semenyo (5 goals, 2 assists), and Evanilson (5 goals) providing strong options.
Prediction
Chelsea has struggled with consistency at home, recording three wins, four draws, and three losses in their last ten Premier League games, with all matches featuring fewer than 3.5 goals. Similarly, Bournemouth’s last 10 away games have also predominantly produced under 3.5 goals. A closely contested game is expected.
Prediction: Chelsea 1-1 Bournemouth
