On paper, this should be a Chelsea win.
They are in better form, they are at home, and they score goals. But games like this have not always been simple for them. They have dropped points from winning positions, and Burnley will believe they can make it uncomfortable.
Chelsea come into this game fresh. They have had a full week to prepare, which is something they have not had in a while under Liam Rosenior. That could make a big difference.They were on a strong run before the draw against Leeds. That game will still annoy them. They were 2-0 up and did not see it out. That is something they need to fix.
Burnley come into this game with some belief after beating Crystal Palace 3-2. Coming back from 2-0 down is not easy. It shows they will not give up. But the bigger picture is still a problem. Scott Parker’s team have only won 4 of their last 27 games. Away from home, they concede too many goals.
So this game is simple. If Chelsea stay sharp, they win. If they switch off, Burnley have a chance.
Chelsea vs Burnley: Key Stats
Head-to-head: Chelsea 13 wins, Burnley 1 win, 6 draws
Chelsea: Scored 2+ goals in their last 5 league matches
Chelsea: Unbeaten in their last 12 games vs Burnley
Chelsea: Scored in 20 straight matches vs Burnley
Burnley: Won just 4 of their last 27 matchesBurnley: Conceded in their last 13 away league games
Burnley: Averaging 1.90 goals conceded per game
Photo Credit (Getty Images)
What to Expect
Chelsea;
Chelsea will try to control the game early. They will keep the ball and push Burnley back. They have enough quality to create chances. But the key is game management. They have to stay focused, especially if they go ahead.
Burnley;
Burnley will sit deep and try to stay compact. They will not want an open game. They will wait for mistakes and try to break quickly. If they can stay in the game, they will believe they can get something late on.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea (4-2-3-1) 🔵 Sanchez; James, Fofana, Chalobah, Hato; Santos, Caicedo; Palmer, Fernandez, Neto; Pedro
Burnley (3-4-2-1) 🟤 Dubravka; Laurent, Worral, Esteve; Walker, Ugochukwu, Hannibal, Humphreys; Edwards, Anthony; Flemming
Players and Matchups to Watch
Cole Palmer: In very good form. He scores and creates chances.
Joao Pedro: Leading the attack. Confident and dangerous.
Jaidon Anthony: Burnley’s main attacking threat. Creates chances.
Zian Flemming: Strong away from home. Always a threat.
Odds Market on MSport
💵 Chelsea to win: 1.25
💵 Burnley to win: 12.42
💵 Draw: 3.44
💵 Over 2.5 Goals: 1.47
💵 Both Teams to Score (GG): 2.01
Chelsea have the quality and they are at home. Burnley will fight, but they give away too many chances. If Chelsea stay focused, they should win.
Prediction: Chelsea 3-1 Burnley
