Premier League action continues as Tottenham Hotspur hosts Chelsea at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, December 8th, 2024, at 10:30 PM (GMT). Spurs, under the guidance of their manager, will look to capitalize on their home advantage and secure a crucial victory. Chelsea, on the other hand, will aim to continue their strong form as they battle for a top-four finish.
Tottenham vs Chelsea Form Guide
Tottenham
Tottenham Hotspur has displayed a solid and effective style of play this season, marked by possession football and short passing. Key players such as Brennan Johnson and James Maddison have been instrumental in their attacking play, and the team’s ability to control the game in the opposition’s half will be vital. Spurs’ strength lies in their counter-attacking ability and finishing scoring chances. However, they will need to overcome their weaknesses in aerial duels and defending against skillful players.
Chelsea
Chelsea, under the management of Mauricio Pochettino, has demonstrated a potent attack this season, creating chances using through balls and individual skill. With Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson playing pivotal roles in their attacking setup, Chelsea has excelled in counter-attacks and finishing chances. The Blues have a solid defense, especially in set-piece situations, and are adept at protecting the lead. However, their weak points include struggles in aerial duels and defending against skillful players, which Tottenham might exploit.
Tottenham vs Chelsea Key Battles
Brennan Johnson vs Cole Palmer
Brennan Johnson, with 6 goals, will be a key threat for Tottenham, trying to break through Chelsea’s defense. Cole Palmer, with 6 assists this season, has been central to Chelsea’s attack and will need to use his creativity to unlock Spurs’ defense.
James Maddison vs Nicolas Jackson
James Maddison has been involved in 8 goals and assists this season, and his ability to control the game in midfield will be vital for Tottenham. In contrast, Nicolas Jackson, with 11 goals and assists combined, will lead the charge for Chelsea, looking to exploit Spurs’ defensive gaps.
Tottenham vs Chelsea Tactical Outlook
Tottenham is likely to dominate possession with short passes and attempt crosses often. They will play with width and look to control the game in the opposition’s half, focusing on counter-attacks and using set-pieces to their advantage. Spurs’ aggressive offside trap could be a weapon against Chelsea’s attacking players.
Chelsea will look to create opportunities through short passes and attempting through balls, often attacking through the middle. They are known for their aggressive style of play, and their ability to play the offside trap could neutralize Tottenham’s attacking threats. Chelsea will also aim to finish scoring chances and protect the lead.
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Head-to-Head Encounters
Tottenham and Chelsea have met 37 times in recent years, with Chelsea winning 20 of those encounters, while Tottenham has won 6. The remaining 11 matches ended in draws. The current betting odds suggest a close contest, with Tottenham at 3.40 to win, a draw at 3.90, and Chelsea at 2.00 to win.
Injury News and Suspensions
Tottenham
Tottenham is dealing with several injury and suspension concerns ahead of their upcoming matches. Rodrigo Bentancur is suspended, while Ben Davies and Cristian Romero are both doubtful due to a knock and a toe injury, respectively. Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario is expected to return by late February 2025, while defender Micky van de Ven is sidelined with a hamstring injury until mid-December 2024. Mikey Moore is also expected to return by mid-December 2024. Forward Richarlison is out with a hamstring injury until mid-December 2024, and Wilson Odobert will be unavailable until mid-February 2025 due to a hamstring injury.
Chelsea
Chelsea’s injury list includes Mykhaylo Mudryk, who is doubtful due to illness. In addition, Reece James and Wesley Fofana are both out with hamstring injuries, with expected returns in early January 2025.
Tottenham vs Chelsea Possible Playing Squads
Tottenham
Forster(GK), Udogie, Dragusin, Romero, Porro. Maddison, Bissouma, Kulusevski, Heung-Min, Solanke, Johnson
Chelsea
Sánchez(GK), Cucurella, Colwill, Badiashile, Gusto, Caicedo, Fernández, Neto, Palmer, Madueke, Jackson
Match Details at a Glance
| Match | Date | Time | Format | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tottenham Hotspur vs Chelsea | Sunday, December 8, 2024 | 10:30 PM (GMT) | Premier League | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium |
Match Prediction
Tottenham will look to capitalize on their home advantage and counter-attack Chelsea, but the Blues’ attacking depth and defensive solidity could give them the edge. Both teams have been in good form, and this match is expected to be closely contested.
Score Prediction
A 2-1 victory for Chelsea seems plausible, with Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer contributing to Chelsea’s win, while Brennan Johnson could find the net for Tottenham.