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After ending 2024 on a sour note, the Blues will hope 2025 offers better prospects, as they are looking to end a three-match winless run against London rivals Crystal Palace. Here are predictions, team news, betting tips, and possible line-ups for the game.
Enzo Maresca might be preaching patience, but the pressure is mounting on the Chelsea boss as his side continues to sputter.
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Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are flying high. A thrilling 2-1 comeback win over Southampton last weekend has propelled them five points clear of the relegation zone and reignited their season.
The Eagles have only lost one of their last six league games, and with Oliver Glasner's men starting to find their rhythm, a top-half finish is now a real possibility.
The reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge ended in a 1-1 draw, and Palace will fancy their chances of causing an upset on Saturday.
Crystal Palace vs. Chelsea Head to Head
The hosts suffered a miserable run against the Blues, losing 13 consecutive league matches before a hard-fought 1-1 draw last September.
The Eagles will be looking to break a long-standing jinx against their London rivals, Chelsea, when the two sides clash on Saturday.
They have not avoided defeat in both league meetings against Chelsea since the 1991-92 season.
Chelsea, on the other hand, have a formidable record at Selhurst Park, boasting a staggering 80% win rate in away matches against Palace. This makes them the most successful away side against any opponent in Premier League history.
Adding to Palace's woes, they have a dreadful record in calendar year openers, losing their first league match in each of the last three years by a combined score of 12-2. To make matters worse, all three of these defeats have come against London rivals.
Chelsea, however, have also not been immune to opening day blues themselves. They have managed to win their first league game of the calendar year in only one of the last eight years, with their last consecutive opening day victories dating back to 2005-2006.
Crystal Palace vs. Chelsea Team News and Possible Lineups
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Palace will welcome back their defensive stalwart, Marc Guehi, for their crucial clash against Chelsea. The England international missed the Saints game due to a one-match suspension but is now available for selection.
However, the Eagles will be without the services of Adam Wharton and Matheus Franca, who are currently sidelined with injuries.
On the other hand, Chelsea will be boosted by the return of Reece James, who was named on the bench against Ipswich. The Blues, however, will be without the trio of Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, and Mykhailo Mudryk.
There's a glimmer of hope for Chelsea fans as reports suggest that Romeo Lavia is nearing a return to action, which will be a significant boost for the Blues' midfield.
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Crystal Palace Predicted lineup (3-4-3)
Henderson (GK); Chalobah, Lacroix, Guehi; Munoz, Hughes, Lerma, Mitchell; Sarr, Mateta, Eze
Chelsea Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Sanchez (GK); Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Enzo, Caicedo; Pedro Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Jackson
Crystal Palace vs. Chelsea Predictions & Betting Tips
Palace, notorious for their struggles against Chelsea, face another uphill battle in their London derby clash. While Oliver Glasner's men have shown improvement of late, their historical record against the Blues and fellow London sides remains a cause for concern.
However, given Chelsea’s struggles in recent weeks, it will not be surprising if they drop points here again.
Under 3.5 goals
Crystal Palace to score
Over 2.5 cards
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