Brighton vs Chelsea FA Cup Preview

• Chelsea to win
• Over 2.5 goals

Brighton and Chelsea face off at the Amex Stadium in a crucial FA Cup fourth-round clash. With both teams struggling for consistency, this tie represents a chance to build momentum as they look to secure a spot in the fifth round.

Brighton: Looking for a Response After Heavy Defeat

Brighton’s recent form has been erratic, making it difficult to predict which version of the Seagulls will turn up. After a three-game winning streak, they have now suffered back-to-back defeats, including a humiliating 7-0 loss to Nottingham Forest—one of the club’s heaviest-ever defeats.

Prior to that, they had been improving, but a 1-0 home defeat to Everton halted their momentum. Fabian Hürzeler’s side now faces a crucial challenge: can they bounce back and show resilience, or will the Chelsea clash highlight further vulnerabilities?

Key Player: João Pedro

Pedro has been Brighton’s standout player this season and remains their main goal threat. If the Seagulls are to recover from last weekend’s disaster, Pedro will likely be at the centre of their attacking efforts.

Chelsea: Searching for Consistency Under Maresca

Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea have endured an inconsistent run of form, winning just three of their last nine matches across all competitions. Their come-from-behind 3-1 victory over West Ham on Monday eased pressure but still left questions about their defensive frailties and inability to control games.

With injuries and suspensions limiting squad options, Maresca may rotate his side slightly. Chelsea’s third-round FA Cup win over Morecambe saw Christopher Nkunku on the scoresheet, and the French forward could lead the line here.

Key Player: Cole Palmer

Palmer has been Chelsea’s most creative outlet this season and remains their best attacking weapon. If Brighton’s defence is shaky after their 7-0 thrashing, Palmer will look to exploit the gaps and dictate play.

Tactical Insights

Brighton’s Approach

• Tighter defensive structure after conceding seven last weekend.
• Fast transitions using Mitoma and Adingra on the wings.
• João Pedro as the focal point in attack, looking to exploit Chelsea’s defensive lapses.

Chelsea’s Strategy

• Dominating possession and controlling midfield with Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo.
• Using Palmer as the main creative hub to unlock Brighton’s defence.
• Exploiting Brighton’s defensive vulnerabilities after their collapse against Nottingham Forest.

Head-to-Head Record

• Recent Meetings: Chelsea won the last FA Cup clash between the sides.
• At the Amex: Brighton have been strong at home in the FA Cup, but their current form is unpredictable.
• Upcoming League Meeting: These teams will face off again in the Premier League on February 14, making this a psychological battle ahead of that fixture.

Predictions and Final Thoughts

Chelsea’s stronger squad depth and Brighton’s defensive collapse last weekend make the Blues slight favourites, but Brighton’s unpredictability could make this a closer game than expected.

Predicted Scoreline: Brighton 1-2 Chelsea

Chelsea’s individual quality in attack should be enough to break Brighton down, but expect a competitive game with the Seagulls looking to respond after last weekend’s embarrassment.

Conclusion

With FA Cup progression on the line, both teams have a point to prove—Chelsea need to build consistency, while Brighton must bounce back from humiliation.

Expect a fast-paced, high-energy cup tie, with Chelsea having the slight edge due to their superior firepower.

For more info on this game, you may also visit:
Fixtures – Emirates FA Cup – Competitions | The Football Association