Chelsea vs Crystal Palace Preview

• Draw or Chelsea win
• Both teams to score

Introduction: Maresca’s Chelsea Gaining Momentum

Enzo Maresca’s tenure as Chelsea manager finally gained momentum with a resounding 6-2 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. This win came after a challenging start, with Chelsea losing 2-0 to Manchester City in their opening league fixture.

The Blues were held to a 2-2 draw at halftime against Wolves, but a “delicate” team talk from Maresca inspired a second-half surge that saw Chelsea score six goals away from home for the first time since April 2022 against Southampton.

Given the significant transition Chelsea is undergoing, it’s no surprise that the team has taken some time to find its rhythm. Maresca, who replaced Mauricio Pochettino this summer, has spent over £200 million on ten new signings during the transfer window.

These new additions will be crucial as Chelsea aims to secure their 14th consecutive Premier League win against Crystal Palace, a feat that would tie the longest winning streak against a single opponent in English Football League history.

Crystal Palace’s Struggles: A Tough Start to the Season

Crystal Palace faces a daunting challenge as they visit Stamford Bridge, particularly given their shaky start to the season.

The Eagles have suffered defeats in their first two Premier League matches, losing 2-1 to Brentford and 2-0 to West Ham United. This marks the first time since the 2017/18 season that Palace has started a top-flight campaign with two consecutive losses.

In that season seven years ago, Crystal Palace went on to lose their first three matches, a fate they risk repeating here.

Manager Oliver Glasner did find some solace in midweek, as Palace cruised to a 4-0 victory over Championship side Norwich City in the Carabao Cup. However, this win came at a cost, with new signing Chadi Riad picking up a knee injury.

This adds to Glasner’s headaches, as he has already had to contend with the departures of key players Michael Olise to Bayern Munich and Joachim Andersen to Fulham this summer.

Players to Watch: Key Influencers on the Pitch

Noni Madueke (Chelsea): Noni Madueke was the star of Chelsea’s victory over Wolves, netting a second-half hat-trick. His contribution has been vital, with Chelsea winning four of the last six Premier League matches in which he has scored (D2).

Madueke’s goal-scoring prowess will be crucial as Chelsea looks to continue their winning streak against Palace.

Ismaïla Sarr (Crystal Palace): New signing Ismaïla Sarr will be one to watch for Palace. Known for making decisive contributions, 11 of his last 13 goals in club football have either been the first or last of the game.

Sarr’s ability to influence key moments could be pivotal if Palace is to challenge Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Conclusion: A Crucial Clash for Both Sides

As Chelsea hosts Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge, the stakes are high for both teams. Chelsea, buoyed by their recent victory, will be looking to maintain their momentum and secure a record-tying 14th consecutive win against Palace.

Meanwhile, Palace is desperate to avoid a third straight league defeat, a result that would mirror their dismal start to the 2017/18 season. With key players like Noni Madueke and Ismaïla Sarr set to influence the game, this London derby promises to be a compelling contest.

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Chelsea v Crystal Palace, 2024/25 | Premier League