Sabasports Match Preview
Premier League: Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
Kickoff Time: 2024-09-01 20:30 (HKT)
Source: REUTERS/Peter Cziborra
Chelsea faced Servette in the midweek UEFA Europa Conference League qualifying match, losing 1-2 away, but still advanced to the main stage with an aggregate score of 3-2. One of Chelsea’s biggest strengths is squad depth, which allows the team to maintain their competitive level even under the pressure of competing on multiple tournaments. It’s worth noting that Chelsea’s home performance has been very strong, with the team achieving seven wins, one draw and two losses in their last 10 home league games. This home advantage will be a key factor for Chelsea to defeat their opponents. Additionally, Chelsea’s attacking power is not to be underestimated, as they have scored a total of nine goals in their last three matches, with multiple players capable of scoring, making them difficult to defend against. However, Chelsea’s defensive performance still needs improvement, as the team has only kept a clean sheet in one of the four official matches this season. Therefore, improving their defense is a major issue that the Blues must address.
Crystal Palace secured a 4-0 victory over Norwich City in the midweek EFL Cup at home, advancing to the next round while also earning their first win of the new season. However, with the departure of several key players through transfers, Crystal Palace’s overall strength has been significantly weakened. Their two consecutive league defeats at the start of the season clearly reflect the problems within the team. In their last league match, Crystal Palace lost 0-2 at home to West Ham United, once again revealing their inability to compete against stronger teams. The match data shows that Crystal Palace’s issues are particularly evident in attack, with the shots on target being significantly lower than total shots. This indicates a lack of a reliable goal scorer who can capitalize on scoring opportunities. Additionally, poor away performance is another key factor restricting Crystal Palace’s success. In their last 10 away league games, Crystal Palace has only managed two wins, three draws and five losses.
Comparing the overall strength and performances of both teams this season, Chelsea is undoubtedly superior. Moreover, Chelsea has won all of their last 10 encounters with Crystal Palace, holding a dominant advantage in the head-to-head record. Considering the gap in home and away performances between the two teams, Chelsea, with the home advantage, is expected to continue their strong form and secure another victory over Crystal Palace.
Chelsea’s Last 5 Games: LWWLD
24-08-30 Servette 2-1 Chelsea
24-08-25 Wolves 2-6 Chelsea
24-08-23 Chelsea 2-0 Servette
24-08-18 Chelsea 0-2 Manchester City
24-08-11 Chelsea 1-1 Inter
Crystal Palace’s Last 5 Games: WLLDW
24-08-28 Crystal Palace 4-0 Norwich City
24-08-24 Crystal Palace 0-2 West Ham United
24-08-18 Brentford 2-1 Crystal Palace
24-08-11 Crystal Palace 1-1 Nantes
24-08-04 Crystal Palace 3-1 West Ham United
Head To Head Record:
24-02-13 Crystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea
23-12-28 Chelsea 2-1 Crystal Palace
23-01-15 Chelsea 1-0 Crystal Palace
22-10-01 Crystal Palace 1-2 Chelsea
22-04-17 Chelsea 2-0 Crystal Palace
Prediction: Chelsea to win