Chelsea return to action on Boxing Day in a festive West London derby against Fulham, aiming to maintain their impressive unbeaten streak which now stretches to 12 games across all competitions (W9, D3).
The Blues’ recent 0-0 draw with Everton showcased their resilience against one of Europe’s most defensively astute sides, as noted by manager Enzo Maresca.
Now back on home turf, Chelsea will look to continue their strong form during the festive period, having won their last three post-Christmas fixtures.
Despite being second in the league, Maresca continues to downplay Chelsea’s title chances, pointing to their relatively modest tally of 35 points, the lowest for a team in second place at Christmas since 2010.
However, their performances at Stamford Bridge remain solid, with just one league defeat here this season (W4, D3).
Maintaining that record will be crucial as they chase league leaders Liverpool, with whom they remain within touching distance.
Fulham head into this clash with a chance to push for a European spot, thanks to the tightly packed midtable battle where just three points separate fifth and tenth.
Marco Silva’s men are in decent form (W3, D5, L1) and are unbeaten in their last four Premier League away games (W1, D3), including an impressive 2-2 draw against league leaders Liverpool.
However, history is not on Fulham’s side in this derby.
They’ve only won eight of their 78 league meetings with Chelsea (D23, L47), and their 27% win rate in West London derbies is the lowest among the capital’s clubs.
Adding to the challenge, Silva has a poor personal record against Chelsea, winning just two of his ten managerial meetings (D2, L6).
Tactical Insights :
– Chelsea’s Attack vs Fulham’s Defence
Chelsea have been one of the most creative sides in the league but have often been frustrated, hitting the woodwork 12 times – the most in the Premier League.
Nicolas Jackson, who has nine league goals this term, has been unlucky to see a quarter of those near-misses attributed to him.
Fulham’s defense, marshaled by Issa Diop, will need to be alert to Chelsea’s fluid attacking movements.
– Fulham’s Counterattacking Threat
Fulham have been efficient on the counter and will look to Alex Iwobi to deliver once again.
The Nigerian international has contributed four goal involvements in his last six games (3G, 1A) and often strikes early, with his last three scoring appearances seeing him open the scoring.
Players to Watch :
– Chelsea: Nicolas Jackson
Jackson’s ability to stretch defenses and create space for teammates has been a key part of Chelsea’s attack this season.
With nine league goals to his name, he’ll be eager to add to his tally and finally beat the woodwork curse.
– Fulham: Alex Iwobi
As mentioned, Iwobi has been Fulham’s standout performer in recent weeks, delivering crucial goals and assists.
His creativity and ability to exploit gaps in the Chelsea defense could be vital for Fulham’s hopes of a positive result.
Potential Lineups:
Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 – Sanchez, Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Enzo; Madueke, Palmer, Felix; Jackson
Fulham: 4-2-3-1 – Leno; Castagne, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Berge, Carney; Wilson, King, Iwobi; Rodrigo Muniz.
Key Stats :
– Chelsea have won their last three post-Christmas Premier League matches.
– Fulham are unbeaten in their last four away league games (W1, D3).
– The home side in this fixture has kept a clean sheet in four of the last six league meetings.
– Fulham’s 27% win rate in West London derbies is the lowest among the four clubs in the region.
Where to watch:
United Kingdom: Amazon Prime
United States: Peacock
Canada: Fubo TV
India: Hot Star VIP, JioTV
Australia: Optus Sport.
Nigeria: SuperSports.
Score Prediction: Chelsea 2-0 Fulham
Conclusion :
While Fulham have shown resilience on the road, Chelsea’s quality and depth, particularly at Stamford Bridge, should prove too much for the visitors.
Expect the Blues to dominate possession and eventually find the breakthrough in what could be a hard-fought derby.
