Chelsea will return to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, January 11, 2025, to host English League Two side Morecambe in the FA Cup Round of 32. After two games on the road and four consecutive matches without a win, the Blues will be eager to get back on track. Africa Football’s editor Allan Damba looks into the upcoming clash and provides his prediction and betting tips.
The match provides Chelsea with a prime opportunity to not only progress to the Round of 16 but also restore confidence under head coach Enzo Maresca. Facing a struggling Morecambe side sitting 23rd in League Two, the home team is heavily favored to dominate the encounter.
Match Overview: Chelsea’s Chance to Shine
Chelsea have endured a tough spell, with only one win in their last five matches. Despite this, they remain overwhelming favorites against a Morecambe side battling relegation in the fourth tier of English football.
Morecambe’s journey to the Round of 32 came via a narrow 1-0 victory over Bradford Town FC, with Jordan Slew scoring the decisive goal. However, their recent form suggests they may struggle to keep pace with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Our Prediction for Chelsea vs Morecambe
The FA Cup presents a golden opportunity for Chelsea to secure silverware this season, especially in Maresca’s debut campaign. Playing at home, Chelsea are expected to win convincingly, with a significant goal margin likely.
Betting Tips:
- Over 3.5 goals (odds of 1.50 on 1xbet): Chelsea are poised to deliver a dominant performance against a struggling defense.
- Both Teams to Score (NO) (odds of 1.55 on 1xbet): Morecambe’s lack of firepower makes a clean sheet for Chelsea a strong possibility.
Chelsea: Recent Form Analysis
Chelsea’s recent struggles have been evident, with just one win in their last five outings. Their most recent game ended in a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The Blues’ last victory came on December 19, when they thrashed Shamrock Rovers 5-1 in the UEFA Conference League.
- Last Five Matches: 1 win, 2 draws, 2 losses.
- Latest Result: Crystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea.
Morecambe: Recent Form Analysis
Morecambe have shown inconsistency, with only two wins in their last eight matches across all competitions. They recorded a morale-boosting 2-0 victory over Tranmere Rovers last weekend but face an enormous challenge against Chelsea.
- Last Five Matches: 2 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss.
- Latest Result: Morecambe 2-0 Tranmere Rovers.
Player to Watch: Nicolas Jackson
Chelsea’s recent struggles in attack have coincided with Nicolas Jackson’s dip in form. The Senegalese international has failed to score in his last five games, but the FA Cup clash offers a chance for redemption. With nine goals to his name this season, Jackson will aim to find the net in what will be his 21st appearance across all competitions.
