Chelsea
3
20 Jan 25
FT
Wolves
1
Match Information
Location
England
Stadium
Stamford Bridge
Referee
Simon Hooper
Match Summary
Match Preview

Chelsea Seek to Consolidate Top-Four Spot Against Struggling Wolves

English Premier League 20 January 2025 20:00 Stamford Bridge, London
Chelsea (Coach - Enzo Maresca) V Wolves (Coach - Gary O'Neil)


Match Preview
Chelsea host Wolves at Stamford Bridge in a crucial Premier League fixture. The home side aims to strengthen their position in the top four, while Wolves are looking to move away from the relegation zone. The Blues sit fourth in the league with 36 points from 20 matches, boasting ten wins, six draws, and four losses. In contrast, Wolves are seventeenth with 16 points, having won four, drawn four, and lost twelve.
Recent meetings between the sides have been evenly balanced, with both teams securing three wins and sharing three draws in their last nine encounters.

Team Analysis
Chelsea have shown solid form recently, with a decent home record that includes four wins, three draws, and two losses. They average 1.7 goals scored and 1.3 goals conceded per home game. Their overall ball possession is high at 58.8%, reflecting their control in matches.
Injuries and doubts could impact their lineup. Key players such as Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernandez, and Levi Colwill are doubtful after missing training. Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile remain sidelined, which may affect their defensive stability.
Wolves have struggled away from home, with only two wins from ten matches. They concede an average of 2.3 goals per away game, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. Their recent form has been poor, with a form score of 0.31. Nelson Semedo is suspended, and Matheus Cunha is a doubt due to illness. However, Mario Lemina's return boosts their midfield options.

Player Analysis
For Chelsea, Cole Palmer has been impressive, scoring 13 goals this season with an average of 0.8 goals per game. His creativity and goal threat are significant assets, but his potential absence could hinder their attacking potency. Enzo Fernandez has been influential in midfield, contributing to Chelsea's high passing accuracy of 86.8%. His doubtful status may affect the team's control in the centre of the park.
Yerson Mosquera has been notable in Wolves' defence, although his disciplinary record is a concern, averaging over one yellow card per game. Hwang Hee-chan offers an attacking threat, and the availability of Mario Lemina adds experience to their midfield.

Expected Lineup
Chelsea are expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation. Sanchez should start in goal. The defence may include Gusto at right-back, Thiago Silva and Bashir Humphreys in central defence, with Chilwell at left-back. In midfield, Caicedo and Gallagher could form the central pairing. The attacking trio may comprise Nkunku, Felix, and Sterling, supporting Jackson up front.
Wolves are likely to set up in a 4-5-1 formation. Sa is expected to be in goal. The defence may feature Doherty, Toti Gomes, Kilman, and Ait-Nouri. The midfield could include Joao Gomes, Lemina, and Rodrigo, with Hwang and Neto on the flanks, supporting striker Strand Larsen.

Recommended Bet

Chelsea to Score Under 2.5 Goals (1.83)
Chelsea welcome Wolves to Stamford Bridge, aiming to strengthen their position in the Premier League's top four. However, recent statistics suggest that the Blues may not score more than two goals in this fixture. Chelsea's average goals scored per home game this season is 1.7, indicating that while they have a decent attacking record, they are not consistently prolific at home.

Team news could impact Chelsea's offensive output. Several key attacking players are facing doubts or are unavailable. Cole Palmer, who has scored 13 goals this season with an average of 0.8 goals per game, missed training due to a knee issue and is a doubt for the match. Mykhaylo Mudryk is unavailable due to a suspension, and Armando Broja remains sidelined with an ankle injury. These absences reduce Chelsea's options in the final third and may lead to a more conservative approach.

In their last nine home matches, Chelsea have scored more than two goals on only two occasions. Their victories have often been by narrow margins, and they have sometimes struggled to break down defensively organized teams. The potential absence of Enzo Fernandez, who has been influential in midfield with high passing accuracy contributing to Chelsea's average of 530.24 passes per game, could further affect their creativity.

Wolves, despite their struggles this season, have shown moments of defensive resilience. While they have conceded an average of 2.3 goals per away game, this figure is influenced by a few heavy defeats. In recent away fixtures, Wolves have managed to limit opponents, conceding more than two goals only twice in their last five away matches. The return of Mario Lemina to the midfield adds experience and could provide additional protection for the defence.

Historically, matches between Chelsea and Wolves at Stamford Bridge have not always been high-scoring affairs. In four of the last six meetings at this venue, Chelsea have scored two goals or fewer. Wolves have demonstrated the ability to frustrate Chelsea, securing draws and narrow defeats by containing their attacking threats.

Given these factors—the potential absence of key attacking players for Chelsea, their recent home scoring record, and Wolves' capability to defend resolutely—backing Chelsea to score under 2.5 goals at odds of 1.83 appears to be a sensible choice. It aligns with statistical trends and takes into account current team circumstances, suggesting that a goal-fest is unlikely in this encounter.

Match to End in a Draw (6.0)
Considering the context of the match and the teams' recent performances, the possibility of a draw is higher than the odds suggest. Chelsea have drawn six of their 20 league matches this season, indicating that they are not always able to convert their dominance into victories. At home, they have drawn four out of nine matches, showing a tendency to share the points at Stamford Bridge.

Wolves, while occupying seventeenth place in the league, have managed to grind out results on the road. They have drawn three of their ten away matches, often keeping games tight against stronger opposition. Under the guidance of Gary O'Neil, Wolves may adopt a cautious approach, focusing on defensive organization to frustrate Chelsea.

Head-to-head statistics support the potential for a stalemate. In the last ten Premier League meetings between Chelsea and Wolves, three matches have ended in a draw. Notably, at Stamford Bridge, Wolves have secured draws in two of their last six visits, demonstrating their ability to compete with Chelsea on their own ground.

Chelsea's potential lineup issues could play a significant role. Doubts over the availability of Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer may disrupt the team's midfield cohesion and attacking fluency. Without their full complement of creative players, Chelsea might find it challenging to break down a determined Wolves defence. Additionally, Chelsea's form score of 0.54 is not overwhelmingly superior to Wolves' 0.31, indicating that the gap between the teams may not be as wide as league positions suggest.

Wolves will be motivated to secure valuable points as they seek to move away from the relegation zone. The return of Mario Lemina strengthens their midfield, providing experience and stability. While Matheus Cunha is a doubt due to illness, players like Hwang Hee-chan offer attacking options that can threaten on the counter-attack.

Given the potential for a low-scoring match and the possibility of both teams cancelling each other out, backing a draw at odds of 6.0 offers significant value. It reflects a realistic outcome based on recent performances and historical encounters. For bettors looking for an option with substantial odds, this selection aligns with the statistical evidence and current team dynamics.

Nicolas Jackson Over 2.5 Shots on Target (4.1)
With Chelsea's attacking lineup potentially affected by injuries and suspensions, Nicolas Jackson is expected to play a pivotal role in their offence. The young forward is likely to lead the line, and the responsibility of spearheading the attack could result in him registering a high number of shots on target.

Chelsea average 16.19 shots per game, with 6.14 shots on target per match. As the central striker, Jackson is set to be the primary recipient of chances created. His involvement is further emphasized by the potential absences of other attacking players, meaning the team may rely heavily on him to produce goalscoring opportunities.

Jackson's playing style involves active participation in attacking moves, and he has shown a willingness to take on defenders and attempt shots from various positions. His confidence in front of goal could translate into multiple shots on target, especially against a Wolves defence that has shown vulnerabilities.

Wolves concede an average of 10.86 shots per game, with opponents registering 4.33 shots on target per match. Their defensive record away from home suggests that Jackson will have opportunities to test the goalkeeper. Additionally, Wolves' defenders, such as Yerson Mosquera, have disciplinary issues, with Mosquera averaging over one yellow card per game. This could lead to defensive lapses or space for Jackson to exploit.

Chelsea's dominance in possession—averaging 58.76%—means they are likely to control the game and create numerous attacking situations. Even if creative midfielders like Enzo Fernandez are unavailable, players such as Raheem Sterling, Christopher Nkunku, and Joao Felix can provide quality service to Jackson.

Given the circumstances, backing Nicolas Jackson to have over 2.5 shots on target at odds of 4.1 is an appealing option. It takes into account his expected central role in the team's attack and the statistical likelihood of him being involved in goal attempts. For those interested in player-specific markets, this bet offers a combination of value and plausible outcome based on the match dynamics.

Bet Builder: Chelsea Under 2.5 Goals, Match Draw, Nicolas Jackson Over 2.5 Shots on Target at 45.02 Odds
By combining these three bets into a single bet builder, bettors can enhance their potential returns significantly. The combined odds of 45.02 mean that a £10 stake would yield a return of £450.20 if all selections are successful.

The logic behind this bet builder is coherent and interlinked. If Chelsea score under 2.5 goals and the match ends in a draw, it suggests a tight, low-scoring affair where Chelsea are unable to secure a victory. Simultaneously, Nicolas Jackson, as the focal point of Chelsea's attack, registers over 2.5 shots on target due to his increased responsibility and involvement.

This bet builder capitalizes on the synergy between the individual selections. The potential absence of other key attackers elevates Jackson's prominence, while Chelsea's recent scoring trends and Wolves' defensive capabilities point towards a match that could end level with few goals scored.

For bettors seeking a high-reward wager that combines several realistic outcomes based on team statistics and current circumstances, this bet builder offers considerable value. It aligns with the narrative of the match and provides an opportunity for substantial returns on a relatively modest stake.

Player Match Statistics




Player
Position
Goal
Assist
Mins
Cards
Shot
SOT
Blk
WW
Interc
Tackl
Pass
Pass
Acc
Drib
Drib
Succ
Key
Pass
Crs
Crs
Acc
Lng
Ball
Lng
Ball
Acc
Duel
Duel
Won
Lost
Foul
Fouled
Offs
Saves
Punches
Run out
Run out
Succ
High
Claim
Rating
Free
kick
Free
kick
goal
Fast
brk
Fast
brk
goal
Poss
lost
Long
Ball
Long Ball
Acc
M CucurellaD1090-1100005279%001100%1010%425%01100000080000121010%
T ChalobahD0190-2100308296%1100%210%367%875%011000000700004367%
K Dewsbury-HallM0177-1010023394%20%110%333%1030%211000000700009333%
R JamesD0077-2010136790%2100%2333%944%1275%0210000007000011944%
T AdarabioyoD1090Y1100009196%1100%00540%367%000000000700005540%
P NetoF0062-0000001782%01617%1100%20%00000000060000111100%
M GustoD0013-0000101471%000333%4100%003000000600006333%
M CaicedoM0090Y1010035986%333%00540%1070%0120000006000013540%
R SanchezG0090Y0000003784%0001443%1100%0000310016000061443%
N MaduekeF1084-6220002286%425%1714%1100%1315%42100000060000211100%
T GeorgeF006Y0000003100%000000001000006000000
A DisasiD0013-000010978%000000000000006000040
J SanchoF0028-0000001493%1100%110%0450%2010000006000070
C PalmerM0084-3110004088%30%2250%475%540%0020000006000011475%
N JacksonF0090-2100011283%0200743%3014000005000070
J FélixF006-0000007100%20%00030%0000000005000020





Player
Position
Goal
Assist
Mins
Cards
Shot
SOT
Blk
WW
Interc
Tackl
Pass
Pass
Acc
Drib
Drib
Succ
Key
Pass
Crs
Crs
Acc
Lng
Ball
Lng
Ball
Acc
Duel
Duel
Won
Lost
Foul
Fouled
Offs
Saves
Punches
Run out
Run out
Succ
High
Claim
Rating
Free
kick
Free
kick
goal
Fast
brk
Fast
brk
goal
Poss
lost
Long
Ball
Long Ball
Acc
G GuedesM0016-1010105100%0020%020%0200000006000030
M DohertyD1090-1100323571%1100%00933%888%0000000006000011933%
P SarabiaM0074-0000002789%0130%1100%450%1011000006000081100%
S BuenoD0090-0000122688%000729%367%100000000600004729%
AndréM0074Y0000212286%0000425%0200000006000030
R A NouriD0074-0000212793%010333%450%011100000600004333%
N SemedoD0090Y0000012483%475%0333%933%1443%222000000600009933%
J BellegardeM0016-0000015100%0000250%0100000006000010
J S LarsenF0090-2200001275%0001100%714%0200000006000041100%
J SáG0090-0000002339%000210%1100%0000300005000014210%
M CunhaF0090-5120022677%0170%10%1145%102000000500001710%
E AgbadouD0090-0000234772%0001533%560%10000000050000151533%
R M GomesF0016-0000011258%020333%250%000000000500006333%
J GomesM0090-0000093884%250%3367%650%1963%1410000000000012650%

Statistics
Match History
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Recommended Bets

Chelsea to Score Under 2.5 Goals (1.83)
Chelsea welcome Wolves to Stamford Bridge, aiming to strengthen their position in the Premier League's top four. However, recent statistics suggest that the Blues may not score more than two goals in this fixture. Chelsea's average goals scored per home game this season is 1.7, indicating that while they have a decent attacking record, they are not consistently prolific at home.

Team news could impact Chelsea's offensive output. Several key attacking players are facing doubts or are unavailable. Cole Palmer, who has scored 13 goals this season with an average of 0.8 goals per game, missed training due to a knee issue and is a doubt for the match. Mykhaylo Mudryk is unavailable due to a suspension, and Armando Broja remains sidelined with an ankle injury. These absences reduce Chelsea's options in the final third and may lead to a more conservative approach.

In their last nine home matches, Chelsea have scored more than two goals on only two occasions. Their victories have often been by narrow margins, and they have sometimes struggled to break down defensively organized teams. The potential absence of Enzo Fernandez, who has been influential in midfield with high passing accuracy contributing to Chelsea's average of 530.24 passes per game, could further affect their creativity.

Wolves, despite their struggles this season, have shown moments of defensive resilience. While they have conceded an average of 2.3 goals per away game, this figure is influenced by a few heavy defeats. In recent away fixtures, Wolves have managed to limit opponents, conceding more than two goals only twice in their last five away matches. The return of Mario Lemina to the midfield adds experience and could provide additional protection for the defence.

Historically, matches between Chelsea and Wolves at Stamford Bridge have not always been high-scoring affairs. In four of the last six meetings at this venue, Chelsea have scored two goals or fewer. Wolves have demonstrated the ability to frustrate Chelsea, securing draws and narrow defeats by containing their attacking threats.

Given these factors—the potential absence of key attacking players for Chelsea, their recent home scoring record, and Wolves' capability to defend resolutely—backing Chelsea to score under 2.5 goals at odds of 1.83 appears to be a sensible choice. It aligns with statistical trends and takes into account current team circumstances, suggesting that a goal-fest is unlikely in this encounter.

Match to End in a Draw (6.0)
Considering the context of the match and the teams' recent performances, the possibility of a draw is higher than the odds suggest. Chelsea have drawn six of their 20 league matches this season, indicating that they are not always able to convert their dominance into victories. At home, they have drawn four out of nine matches, showing a tendency to share the points at Stamford Bridge.

Wolves, while occupying seventeenth place in the league, have managed to grind out results on the road. They have drawn three of their ten away matches, often keeping games tight against stronger opposition. Under the guidance of Gary O'Neil, Wolves may adopt a cautious approach, focusing on defensive organization to frustrate Chelsea.

Head-to-head statistics support the potential for a stalemate. In the last ten Premier League meetings between Chelsea and Wolves, three matches have ended in a draw. Notably, at Stamford Bridge, Wolves have secured draws in two of their last six visits, demonstrating their ability to compete with Chelsea on their own ground.

Chelsea's potential lineup issues could play a significant role. Doubts over the availability of Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer may disrupt the team's midfield cohesion and attacking fluency. Without their full complement of creative players, Chelsea might find it challenging to break down a determined Wolves defence. Additionally, Chelsea's form score of 0.54 is not overwhelmingly superior to Wolves' 0.31, indicating that the gap between the teams may not be as wide as league positions suggest.

Wolves will be motivated to secure valuable points as they seek to move away from the relegation zone. The return of Mario Lemina strengthens their midfield, providing experience and stability. While Matheus Cunha is a doubt due to illness, players like Hwang Hee-chan offer attacking options that can threaten on the counter-attack.

Given the potential for a low-scoring match and the possibility of both teams cancelling each other out, backing a draw at odds of 6.0 offers significant value. It reflects a realistic outcome based on recent performances and historical encounters. For bettors looking for an option with substantial odds, this selection aligns with the statistical evidence and current team dynamics.

Nicolas Jackson Over 2.5 Shots on Target (4.1)
With Chelsea's attacking lineup potentially affected by injuries and suspensions, Nicolas Jackson is expected to play a pivotal role in their offence. The young forward is likely to lead the line, and the responsibility of spearheading the attack could result in him registering a high number of shots on target.

Chelsea average 16.19 shots per game, with 6.14 shots on target per match. As the central striker, Jackson is set to be the primary recipient of chances created. His involvement is further emphasized by the potential absences of other attacking players, meaning the team may rely heavily on him to produce goalscoring opportunities.

Jackson's playing style involves active participation in attacking moves, and he has shown a willingness to take on defenders and attempt shots from various positions. His confidence in front of goal could translate into multiple shots on target, especially against a Wolves defence that has shown vulnerabilities.

Wolves concede an average of 10.86 shots per game, with opponents registering 4.33 shots on target per match. Their defensive record away from home suggests that Jackson will have opportunities to test the goalkeeper. Additionally, Wolves' defenders, such as Yerson Mosquera, have disciplinary issues, with Mosquera averaging over one yellow card per game. This could lead to defensive lapses or space for Jackson to exploit.

Chelsea's dominance in possession—averaging 58.76%—means they are likely to control the game and create numerous attacking situations. Even if creative midfielders like Enzo Fernandez are unavailable, players such as Raheem Sterling, Christopher Nkunku, and Joao Felix can provide quality service to Jackson.

Given the circumstances, backing Nicolas Jackson to have over 2.5 shots on target at odds of 4.1 is an appealing option. It takes into account his expected central role in the team's attack and the statistical likelihood of him being involved in goal attempts. For those interested in player-specific markets, this bet offers a combination of value and plausible outcome based on the match dynamics.

Bet Builder: Chelsea Under 2.5 Goals, Match Draw, Nicolas Jackson Over 2.5 Shots on Target at 45.02 Odds
By combining these three bets into a single bet builder, bettors can enhance their potential returns significantly. The combined odds of 45.02 mean that a £10 stake would yield a return of £450.20 if all selections are successful.

The logic behind this bet builder is coherent and interlinked. If Chelsea score under 2.5 goals and the match ends in a draw, it suggests a tight, low-scoring affair where Chelsea are unable to secure a victory. Simultaneously, Nicolas Jackson, as the focal point of Chelsea's attack, registers over 2.5 shots on target due to his increased responsibility and involvement.

This bet builder capitalizes on the synergy between the individual selections. The potential absence of other key attackers elevates Jackson's prominence, while Chelsea's recent scoring trends and Wolves' defensive capabilities point towards a match that could end level with few goals scored.

For bettors seeking a high-reward wager that combines several realistic outcomes based on team statistics and current circumstances, this bet builder offers considerable value. It aligns with the narrative of the match and provides an opportunity for substantial returns on a relatively modest stake.

Who Will Win?
Home Win Draw Away Win
Pinnacle 1.62 0.54 Bet
William Hill 1.2 5.8 21.0 Bet
10BET 1.01 14.54 100.0 Bet
Lineup
Chelsea
Wolves
Formations
4-2-3-1
3-4-2-1
Starting Lineups
Cole Palmer 
Midfielder
20
Marc Cucurella 
Defender
3
Tosin Adarabioyo 
Defender
4
Pedro Neto 
Midfielder
7
Nicolas Jackson 
Forward
15
Moises Caicedo 
Midfielder
25
Robert Sanchez 
Goalkeeper
1
Reece James 
Defender
24
Noni Madueke 
Midfielder
11
Kiernan Dewsbury Hall 
Midfielder
22
Trevoh Chalobah 
Defender
23
Nélson Semedo 
Midfielder
22
João Gomes 
Midfielder
8
Matt Doherty 
Defender
2
Pablo Sarabia 
Midfielder
21
Santiago Bueno 
Defender
4
André 
Midfielder
7
Rayan Aït Nouri 
Midfielder
3
Emmanuel Agbadou 
Defender
12
Jörgen Strand Larsen 
Forward
9
Matheus Cunha 
Midfielder
10
José Sá 
Goalkeeper
1
Reserves
João Félix 
Forward
14
Filip Jorgensen 
Goalkeeper
12
Malo Gusto 
Defender
27
Marc Guiu 
Forward
38
Tyrique George 
Forward
32
Axel Disasi 
Defender
2
Josh Acheampong 
Defender
34
Christopher Nkunku 
Forward
18
Jadon Sancho 
Forward
19
C. Borges 
Forward
26
Gonçalo Guedes 
Forward
29
Thomas Doyle 
Midfielder
20
Sam Johnstone 
Goalkeeper
31
Jean Ricner Bellegarde 
Midfielder
27
Craig Dawson 
Defender
15
Rodrigo Martins Gomes 
Forward
19
Pedro Henrique·Cardoso De Lima 
Defender
37
Hee Chan Hwang 
Forward
11
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