Match Preview: Injury ridden Brentford take on Chelsea

As the Premier League action resumes, Brentford welcomes Chelsea in a clash that holds significance for both teams.

Brentford seeks to break a string of recent defeats, facing the challenge of Chelsea’s resurgence after a heart-wrenching loss in the Carabao Cup final.

The history favors Brentford in some aspects, but Chelsea is determined to bounce back and maintain their momentum in the league.

Recent Form:

Brentford enters this fixture with a challenging run of form, having lost five of their last six games, including a 4-2 defeat to West Ham.

The Bees find themselves just five points above the relegation zone and will be eager to reverse their fortunes.

Chelsea, on the other hand, endured a devastating loss in the Carabao Cup final but secured a morale-boosting victory against Leeds in the FA Cup, with Conor Gallagher scoring the winning goal.

Historical Context:

Brentford carries historical significance into this match, aiming to join Manchester City and Manchester United as the only teams to keep four straight clean sheets against Chelsea.

Additionally, they seek to achieve a rare league double over Chelsea, a feat last accomplished in the 1938/1939 season.

Chelsea’s Wembley woes:

Chelsea suffered a heartbreak at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final, losing to Liverpool with a late-minute winner from Van Dijk.

This marked Chelsea’s sixth straight loss in a final at Wembley and their fourth consecutive loss to Liverpool in a final.

The Blues, however, responded with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Leeds in the FA Cup and now find themselves in the quarter-final of the completion which may serve as their only chance of silverware and European qualification this season.

Players to Watch:

Brentford – Neal Maupay: The prolific striker for Brentford comes into this match with confidence, having scored his sixth goal in the last game.

Maupay’s ability to find the back of the net will be crucial for Brentford’s hopes against Chelsea.

Chelsea – Nicolas Jackson: Chelsea’s goal-scoring sensation, Jackson, netted his 10th goal in all competitions against Leeds.

His attacking prowess and ability to influence the game will be vital for Chelsea as they seek to secure back-to-back victories.

Defensive challenge for Chelsea:

Chelsea’s defensive resilience will be tested, considering that 10 of their 13 away games this season have seen both teams score.

Brentford, with historical defensive prowess against the Blues, will look to exploit any vulnerabilities in Chelsea’s backline.

Potential Lineups:

Brentford: 3-5-2 – Flekken; Zanka, Ajer, Mee; Lewis-Potter; Onyeka, Norgaard, Jensen, Reguilon; Toney, Maupay.

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

Score prediction: Brentford 0 – 3 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.

Conclusion:

As Brentford hosts Chelsea at the Brentford Community Stadium, both teams have distinct motivations.

Brentford aims to overcome recent struggles and create history against Chelsea, while the Blues seek to rebound from a Wembley disappointment and continue their positive momentum in the league.

The clash promises intrigue, with historical context, attacking prowess, and defensive challenges shaping what could be a captivating encounter in the Premier League.