Match Preview: Chelsea look to upset title hunting Manchester City

An eagerly awaited showdown unfolds as Manchester City hosts Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium. With both teams displaying contrasting forms, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter.

City’s dominance and unbeaten streak:

Manchester City enters the fixture riding high on confidence, following their impressive 3-1 victory over Copenhagen in the Champions League.

This win extends their remarkable streak to 11 successive victories across all competitions.

City’s fortress at home remains unbreached, with an unbeaten run of 22 games (W18, D4). Sitting second on the league table, just two points behind leaders Liverpool with a game in hand, City is poised to continue their pursuit of a 4th successive league win.

Chelsea’s resurgence and historic feat:

Chelsea’s season has been a rollercoaster ride, experiencing ups and downs.

After suffering consecutive defeats and conceding eight goals, Chelsea bounced back with two consecutive wins, including a historic 13th straight victory over Crystal Palace, setting a Premier League record.

They aim to secure their third consecutive away win while scoring three or more goals for the first time since March 2022. However, Chelsea faces a formidable challenge against City, having failed to defeat them since the 2021 Champions League final.

Key battles and players to watch:

Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City): The Belgian maestro has been instrumental since returning from injury, consistently scoring or assisting in every game.

His creativity and vision pose a significant threat to Chelsea’s defense.

Cole Palmer (Chelsea): A former Man City player, Palmer has the opportunity to make history by becoming the first player to score against his former club both home and away.

His performance will be crucial in Chelsea’s attacking endeavors.

Pochettino’s challenge against Guardiola:

Chelsea’s head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, faces a daunting record against Pep Guardiola, having lost 13 competitive matches against him, the most against any coach.

Pochettino seeks to overcome this hurdle and guide Chelsea to a memorable victory.

Historical Significance and Potential Milestones:

If Chelsea manages to score two or more goals against City, it will mark the first time a team managed by Pep Guardiola concedes six goals against a single opponent in a season.

Additionally, a victory for Chelsea would be a significant achievement, breaking their winless streak against City since the 2021 Champions League final.

Potential Lineups: Man City: 4-1-4-1 Ederson; Walker, Dias, Stones, Ake; Rodri; Nunez, De bruyne, Alvarez, Foden; Haaland.

Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 Petrovic; Gusto, Disasi, Colwill, Chillwell; Caicedo, Enzo; Palmer, Gallagher, Sterling; Jackson.

Score Prediction: Man City 4 -1 Chelsea.

Where to Watch:

United Kingdom: Sky Sports Main Event

United States: NBCSN

Canada: Fubo Sports Network

India: Star Sports Select HD

Australia: Optus Sport

Nigeria: Supersports.

As anticipation mounts for this high-stakes encounter, football enthusiasts brace themselves for an enthralling battle between two top-tier teams.