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Match Preview: Chelsea face off against Wolves again, but this time they have an even bigger advantage

Chelsea will look to break back into the Premier League’s top four as Wolves, still winless in the competition this season, make the daunting trip to west London.

Chelsea are beginning to find their rhythm under Enzo Maresca, winning three of their last four Premier League matches (L1) to stay firmly in contention for a top-four finish.

Their latest success, a 1-0 win over Tottenham, showcased their growing maturity and defensive organisation, while they also extended their scoring streak to eight consecutive league games.

However, the Blues were handed a midweek reality check in Europe after being held to a 2-2 draw by Qarabağ in the UEFA Champions League.

Returning to Stamford Bridge could provide the ideal response, though recent home form has been inconsistent, with two defeats in their last three league games there, matching their tally from the previous 28 such fixtures (W19, D7).

For Wolves, the situation is dire. Last weekend’s 3-0 loss to Fulham proved the final straw for Vítor Pereira, who was dismissed following a dismal start that leaves the Old Gold bottom of the table with just two points from ten games.

No side in Premier League history has survived with so few points at this stage, and a 14-match winless run (D3, L11) further underlines their plight.

Their away form is equally bleak, with four defeats and no goals in five league trips (D1) this season.

Head-to-Head History

Wolves have found Stamford Bridge a tough hunting ground over the years, managing just one win in 11 Premier League away meetings (D3, L7), a 4-2 victory in February 2024.

Chelsea, however, have dominated this fixture historically and will aim to extend that supremacy.

Hot Stats and Streaks

  • Chelsea have failed to score in only one of their last 34 home matches in all competitions.
  • The Blues have been losing for just 14.4% of their Premier League minutes this season.
  • Wolves’ Premier League games have produced a league-high 1.8 first-half goals on average this campaign.
  • Only Fulham (140) have committed more fouls than Wolves (134) ahead of matchday 11.

Key Players to Watch

João Pedro continues to shine for Chelsea, registering six goal involvements in his last nine Premier League appearances (3 goals, 3 assists).

Notably, all three of his strikes have come before half-time, underlining his knack for fast starts.

For Wolves, Jørgen Strand Larsen remains their best hope in attack.

The Norwegian striker scored in this fixture last season, and six of his last seven goals have arrived after the break, proof of his late-game danger.

Team News

Chelsea’s Roméo Lavia limped off during midweek action and could miss out here, joining Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill on the sidelines.

Wolves will be without Emmanuel Agbadou, who serves a suspension following his red card against Fulham, though caretaker boss Steve Davis otherwise has a full squad to select from.

Potential Lineups

Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 – Sanchez; Gusto, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella; Enzo, Caicedo; Neto, Joao Pedro, Garnacho; Delap.

Wolves: 4-3-3 – Johnstone; Tchatchoua, Bueno, Krejci, Bueno; Munetsi, Andre, Joao Gomes; Arias, Larsen, Hwang.

Where to watch

United Kingdom: Sky Sports

United States: Paramount+

Canada: Fubo

India: JioHotstar

Australia: Stan Sport

Nigeria: SuperSports

Conclusion and Prediction

Chelsea’s attacking momentum and Wolves’ alarming struggles point towards a comfortable home victory.

Expect the Blues to take control early and maintain pressure throughout against the league’s bottom side.

My score prediction : Chelsea 3-0 Wolves.

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