Chelsea welcome Brentford to Stamford Bridge in a Premier League clash that promises to be intriguing. While Brentford have enjoyed recent success at Chelsea's home ground, the Blues, under Enzo Maresca, are in fine form and will be determined to end their poor run against The Bees. Here’s a comprehensive preview of the upcoming match.
Chelsea Recent Form
Chelsea are enjoying a strong season under new manager Enzo Maresca. The Blues currently sit second in the Premier League table, just four points behind leaders Liverpool.
They are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, including a Europa Conference League victory over Astana. Their home form has been solid, and they are looking to continue that momentum against Brentford.
Injury and Team News
Chelsea left many key players behind for their midweek trip to Kazakhstan, meaning the first team should be well-rested.
Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson are expected to return to the starting lineup, while Noni Madueke and Jadon Sancho may feature on the wings.
Pedro Neto is unavailable due to suspension, which limits Maresca’s options slightly.
Last Chelsea Lineup
Here is how Chelsea last lined up in the Premier League:
Brentford Recent Form
Brentford’s form has been a mixed bag this season. They are impressive at home, winning seven out of eight matches, but their away form has been woeful. They have managed just one point on the road this season, and their lack of goals away from home has been a major concern.
Nevertheless, they will take confidence from their recent trips to Stamford Bridge, where they have won their last three matches.
Injury and Team News
Thomas Frank’s Brentford remain without key defenders Rico Henry and Aaron Hickey. However, Vitaly Janelt could make his return after missing the win over Newcastle.
Mathias Jensen remains a doubt, while Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa will lead the attack, having scored nine goals each this season.
Last Brentford Lineup
Here is how Brentford lined up for their last match:
Chelsea vs Brentford - Who is the Referee and VAR?
Here are the confirmed officials for the game:
Referee: Peter Bankes.
Assistants: Ian Hussin, Nick Greenhalgh.
Fourth official: Rob Jones.
VAR: Matt Donohue.
Assistant VAR: Dan Robathan.
Chelsea Player To Watch
Cole Palmer - The former Manchester City starlet has been in fine form and will be instrumental in Chelsea's attacking play. His creativity and eye for goal make him a constant threat.
Brentford Player To Watch
Bryan Mbeumo - The forward has been Brentford’s standout performer this season, and his pace and finishing ability could trouble Chelsea’s defence on the break.
Prediction
Despite Brentford's strong record at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea’s recent form and squad depth give them the upper hand. With key players well-rested, the Blues are likely to dominate possession and create chances. Brentford may pose problems, but Chelsea should come away with a win.
Our Prediction: Chelsea 3-1 Brentford
Betting Tips
Tip 1 - Chelsea to win
The Blues’ strong form and Brentford’s poor away record suggest a home win.
Tip 2 - Both teams to score
Brentford have enough attacking quality to trouble Chelsea, even if they ultimately fall short.
Tip 3 - Cole Palmer to score anytime
Palmer has been in fine form and is likely to be involved in Chelsea's attacking output.
