- Date and Time: Thursday, December 26, 10:00 AM ET
- Venue: Stamford Bridge, London, England
- Competition: Premier League
| Odds via 20bet | |
| Chelsea vs Fulham | Thursday, December 26, 10:00 AM ET |
| Chelsea odds | -217 |
| Fulham odds | +515 |
| Draw | +386 |
| Over\Under | Total 2.5: -233/+167 |
Chelsea vs Fulham Preview
Chelsea
At the start of the season, few anticipated Chelsea would sit second in the Premier League heading into Christmas. This achievement alone warrants praise for Enzo Maresca, especially given it’s his first top-flight managerial role. He initially sidelined several players due to the sheer number signed under Todd Boehly’s ownership.
Maresca has divided his squad into two distinct groups tailored to different competitions. This controversial decision was widely criticized, and some feared it might disrupt the harmony in the dressing room.
Another angle of that brilliant piece of Tosin defending. 🤯#CFC | #EVECHE pic.twitter.com/hJAwarUTnp
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 23, 2024
The Blues last suffered a Premier League defeat on October 20th, losing 2-1 to Arne Slot’s Liverpool. They lost only twice in the competition. Chelsea’s ‘second team’ has dominated the Conference League, winning all six of their group-stage matches— the only team to achieve this feat.
Wesley Fofana, Reece James, and Benoît Badiashile will be sidelined, and Marc Cucurella served his suspension following a red card. Mykhaylo Mudryk, who failed a drug test, is embroiled in a doping scandal, which resulted in his temporary suspension. The Ukrainian denies any wrongdoing, and the club has launched an investigation into the matter.
Fulham
Fulham currently sit ninth in the Premier League and rank among the teams with the most draws this season. Only Brighton, Everton, and Crystal Palace have drawn seven matches.
The Cottagers drew with Southampton 0-0 last weekend, marking their third consecutive stalemate. They’ve also held league leaders Liverpool (2-2) and Arsenal (1-1) to draws. However, their lack of squad depth has hindered their consistency, as evidenced by a 4-1 defeat to Wolverhampton.
Wasting no time to leave an impression on the @premierleague. 👑 pic.twitter.com/iDVEKnEdgq
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) December 22, 2024
Fulham remain a challenging side that blends verticality with technical football. Head coach Marco Silva has received praise from fans, journalists, and peers for his distinctive approach.
Fulham face two challenging fixtures to close out 2024: a Boxing Day clash with Chelsea and a match against Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth on the 29th.
Kenny Tete, Harrison Reed, and Reiss Nelson will be sidelined.
Chelsea vs Fulham Prediction
- Pick: Chelsea to win
- Odds: -217 (20Bet)
- Score prediction: Chelsea 3-2 Fulham
One might wonder why this prediction downplays the impact of Mudryk’s absence. It does, but Chelsea’s squad depth ensures they have adequate cover for the Ukrainian winger while the investigation continues. Particularly in their forward line, which is brimming with talent.
Their individual quality should be enough to secure victory, while Maresca’s recent success inspires confidence that Chelsea will push for goals from the outset. Its importance only increases on Boxing Day, a classic of football in the UK.
Fulham have scored a respectable 24 goals in 17 matches but have also conceded 22. Their defensive frailties will likely cost them all three points at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea vs Fulham Prediction, Betting Tip
- Pick: Cole Palmer to score
- Odds: +105 (20Bet)
Apart from Mohamed Salah, Cole Palmer has been a central figure in discussions about the Premier League’s top forwards this season. With 11 goals and 6 assists in 17 games, his stats speak for themselves.
Palmer frequently finds goalscoring opportunities in difficult situations, making him a strong candidate to score against Fulham, a side that often prioritizes vertical play.
Chelsea vs Fulham Where to Watch (USA, Canada)
- Peacock Premium (USA)
- AppleTV (Canada)
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