Chelsea will once again be on the road, making a short trip to fellow London side Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in the English Premier League. This match, scheduled for Saturday, January 4, 2025, will be their first of the new year. Africa Football’s editor Allan Damba looks into the upcoming match.
The Blues will be eager to put their recent shaky form behind them against a team that is steadily regaining confidence. Chelsea have failed to secure a victory in their last three games, most recently losing 2-0 to relegation contenders Ipswich Town.
Enzo Maresca’s side is gradually slipping out of the race for this season’s Premier League title. They currently sit fourth in the standings with 35 points, 10 points behind league leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace have avoided defeat in their last two games, drawing 0-0 with Bournemouth and defeating Southampton 2-1 in their most recent outing. In the latter game, they came from behind, with goals from Trevor Chalobah and Eberechi Oluchi Eze securing the win.
The fight for survival continues for Oliver Glasner’s Eagles, who are 15th in the table with 20 points, five points clear of Ipswich Town, who occupy the final relegation spot.
Our Prediction for Crystal Palace vs Chelsea
The recent form of both teams is somewhat similar, with each managing two wins in their last five matches. This encounter is set to be highly competitive, as both teams have different but equally pressing objectives for the season.
The first meeting between these sides this season ended in a 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge. Given this, punters are advised to stake on Both Teams to Score (Yes) at odds of 1.55 on 1xbet. High-stakes bettors might consider Over 2.5 goals, with odds of 1.69 on 1xbet.
Crystal Palace Recent Form Analysis
Crystal Palace have recorded two wins in their last five matches, alongside two losses and a draw. During December, they played seven matches, securing three wins, two defeats, and two draws.
The Eagles have scored eight goals in their last five games but conceded 10, averaging two goals conceded per match.
- Last Five Games: 2 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses
- Latest Result: Crystal Palace 2-1 Southampton
Chelsea Recent Form Analysis
After a brilliant run of eight consecutive victories, Chelsea have faltered, failing to win their last three matches. During this period, they have suffered two defeats and managed one draw.
Enzo Maresca’s team has only managed to score one goal in their last three matches while conceding four.
- Last Five Games: 2 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses
- Latest Result: Ipswich Town 2-0 Chelsea
Player to Watch
Ismaila Sarr: Sarr has been Crystal Palace’s standout performer, playing the full 90 minutes in their last five matches. During this period, the Senegalese forward has scored three goals and provided one assist, making him a key figure for the Eagles. This season, Sarr has registered four goals and two assists in 23 appearances across all competitions.
Best Odds and Betting Tips
Here are our top betting tips for this match:
- Both Teams to Score (Yes) at 1xbet (1.55)
- Over 2.5 goals at 1xbet (1.69)
