Written by Chad Nagel for Soccer Betting News. Follow them both on Twitter and Facebook now!
Crystal Palace v Chelsea | Sunday 3 January | Selhurst Park | 15:30
Chelsea is eager to kick off the new year with a victory as they head to Selhurst Park to face a Crystal Palace squad grappling with injuries. The Eagles shocked many with a 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge in August, but Chelsea triumphed 2-1 in their last home encounter at Selhurst Park.
To Win (90 Mins)
Crystal Palace 26/10
Draw 23/10
Chelsea 21/20
Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace enters this match unbeaten in six games, with three draws, including two recent stalemates against Bournemouth and Swansea. They are motivated to return to winning ways to boost their top-four aspirations.
Since Alan Pardew’s appointment, Palace’s transformation has been remarkable. From battling relegation to finishing 10th last season, Pardew has instilled a fearless mentality in the team. Palace, much like Leicester City, now plays with ambition and confidence, which has earned them nine wins this season, including impressive wins at Stamford Bridge and Anfield.
Defensively, Palace is sturdy, boasting the second-best defensive record in the league alongside Manchester United, featuring stalwarts such as Joel Ward, Damien Delaney, Scott Dann, and Pape Souare.
Offensively, the Eagles will be without key players Yannick Bolasie and Connor Wickham due to injuries; Dwight Gayle and Bakary Sako are doubts. Patrick Bamford has returned to Chelsea after an early loan termination. Wingers Jason Puncheon and Wilfried Zaha remain vital threats with their pace, creativity, and goal-scoring abilities.
Yohan Cabaye’s arrival from PSG has enhanced Palace’s attacking potential by introducing incisive passes and goal threats, which could trouble Chelsea’s defence as he skilfully operates between opponents’ lines.
Chelsea
Chelsea remains unbeaten since Guus Hiddink’s return but is yet to notch a win under him. They earned a 2-2 draw against Watford but dominated the match, only to be denied by a missed penalty from Oscar.
In a recent goalless draw against Manchester United, Chelsea displayed a solid defence and lethal counter-attacking capabilities. The team is expected to be revitalised by Diego Costa’s return after suspension, which should empower their attacking force.
Costa, who scored twice against Watford, is a formidable striker combining strength, pace, and fierce competitiveness, making him a constant menace to defenders.
Brazilian winger Willian has been Chelsea’s most consistent performer, dazzling with his dribbling, pace, and precision in free kicks and set pieces. Oscar, known for his creativity and technical skills, is capable of conjuring magical moments on the pitch.
Eden Hazard aims to rediscover his best form to spearhead Chelsea’s efforts, bringing flair, speed, and unpredictability that can dismantle defences. Pedro’s rapid movement and creativity add further dynamism to the Blues’ attack.
Verdict: Chelsea 26/10
Chelsea’s recent form and Costa’s comeback provide them a solid edge over Crystal Palace, who are missing key attacking players. Expect a fiercely contested match, but the Blues could edge this one.
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