After a dominant 5-0 win over League Two Morecambe in the FA Cup, Chelsea will hope to carry that momentum into the Premier League when they host an in-form Bournemouth.

However, the Blues are well aware that domestic cup dominance doesn’t necessarily translate to league success, as their recent run of four league games without a win (D2, L2) has cast doubt on their ability to sustain a top-four challenge.  

Chelsea: Time to Rebound  

Chelsea’s convincing victory in the cup provided a much-needed morale boost, but Enzo Maresca knows that his side must turn their focus back to the league, where their form has dipped significantly.

Their recent struggles have seen them lose ground in the title race, and Stamford Bridge has not been the fortress it once was.  

Despite this, history is on their side. The Blues have dominated this fixture in recent years, winning four of the last five Premier League meetings with Bournemouth (D1).

Additionally, Chelsea have an imperious record in Tuesday home league matches, remaining unbeaten in such games since January 2002 (W10, D4).  

Bournemouth: A Tough Opponent  

Bournemouth are no strangers to upsetting the odds, and they travel to West London on the back of a commanding 5-1 FA Cup win over West Brom.

Andoni Iraola’s side are unbeaten in nine games across all competitions (W6, D3) and have been particularly dangerous on the road, scoring at least twice in their last five Premier League away games (W3, D1, L1).  

Interestingly, Bournemouth have historically fared better against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge than at the Vitality Stadium.

They’re one of just four teams to have won more Premier League games away to Chelsea (three) than at home (one).

With Justin Kluivert in fine form, scoring four penalties in Bournemouth’s last four away games, the Cherries will fancy their chances of causing an upset.  

Tactical Insights  

• Chelsea: Expect Maresca’s side to dominate possession and push Bournemouth onto the back foot. The Blues will rely on their creative midfield to unlock a Bournemouth defense that has shown resilience on the road.  

• Bournemouth: Iraola’s side are dangerous on the counterattack, and their ability to draw fouls in dangerous areas has paid dividends recently, with Kluivert converting from the penalty spot with regularity.  

Players to Watch  

• Chelsea: Cole Palmer 

The young English talent has been sensational this season, scoring 13 goals and providing 6 in 20 appearances. He’ll be one to look out for in this high stakes fixture.

• Bournemouth: Justin Kluivert

  Kluivert has been a penalty-box poacher for Bournemouth, converting four spot-kicks in recent away games. His composure under pressure makes him a constant threat.  

Potential Lineups:

Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 – Sanchez; James, Acheampong, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Enzo; Madueke, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson.

Bournemouth: 4-2-3-1 – Travers; Hill, Zarbanyi, Huijsen, Kerkez; Christie, Cook; Semenyo, Kluivert, Outtara; Evanilson.

Key Stats  

– Chelsea are unbeaten in Tuesday Premier League home games since January 2002 (W10, D4).  

– Bournemouth are on a nine-game unbeaten run in all competitions (W6, D3).  

– Chelsea have won four of the last five Premier League H2Hs against Bournemouth (D1).  

– Bournemouth have scored at least twice in their last five Premier League away games.  

Where to watch: 

United Kingdom: TNT Sports 3

United States: Discovery+

Canada: Fubo TV 

India: Hot Star VIP, JioTV

Australia: Optus Sport. 

Nigeria: SuperSports.

Score Prediction: Chelsea 3-2 Bournemouth

Conclusion:

Chelsea’s record in this fixture and their dominance in midweek home games make them favorites.

However, Bournemouth’s form, particularly on the road, suggests this won’t be straightforward.

Expect an entertaining game with goals at both ends.