Chelsea's Napoli win and João Pedro's purple patch make them favorites to beat West Ham, but defensive absences raise the likelihood of goals. Punters should consider “Chelsea to win & both teams to score” or João Pedro anytime scorer as value plays given Chelsea’s attacking form but unstable backline.
Chelsea ride Napoli high into London derby with West Ham
Chelsea head into the Premier League clash with West Ham buoyed by a 3–2 victory in Naples that sealed automatic progression to the Champions League last 16. João Pedro’s brace and a fifth win in six matches under Liam Rosenior have the Blues flying, and Rosenior will look to translate that momentum into a third straight local victory after wins over Brentford and Crystal Palace.
Recent form and momentum
Chelsea’s confidence is rising: two successive Premier League wins, a dramatic Champions League result and the return of key attacking options. Cole Palmer’s late assists in Italy underline his importance when fit, while João Pedro’s scoring touch gives Rosenior a reliable focal point up front.
Team news: injuries and absences shape selection
Several defensive and midfield absences will force Rosenior into selection compromises. Centre-backs Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo are sidelined, and midfielders Dário Essugo and Roméo Lavia are also unavailable. Mykhailo Mudryk remains ineligible. Reece James’ fitness is being managed, with Malo Gusto ready if needed. Filip Jörgensen has returned to the bench but Robert Sánchez remains the first-choice goalkeeper.
Key availability notes
- Out: Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo (CB), Dário Essugo, Roméo Lavia (midfield), Mykhailo Mudryk (ineligible) - Doubtful/manage: Reece James (fitness load) - Bench return: Filip Jörgensen
Predicted XI and tactical setup
Robert Sánchez is expected in goal with Reece James likely to start if Rosenior backs his fitness, otherwise Malo Gusto may come in. The center-back pairing will feature Wesley Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah, while Marc Cucurella faces the test of containing Jarrod Bowen. Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández should operate in midfield, with Fernández possibly deployed in a deeper role. The attack is likely to include Pedro Neto on the right, Cole Palmer in a supporting/creative role, Alejandro Garnacho on the left and João Pedro leading the line.
Predicted starting XI (probable)
Robert Sánchez; Reece James (or Malo Gusto), Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Marc Cucurella; Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández; Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Alejandro Garnacho; João Pedro.
Tactical battle to watch
Chelsea will try to exploit their attacking fluency and João Pedro’s finishing, but their makeshift backline could be vulnerable to West Ham’s counters and Jarrod Bowen’s pace. Control of the midfield—especially Caicedo’s battles with West Ham’s creators—will be decisive. Expect a fast transitional game with chances at both ends.
Betting outlook and angles
Form favors Chelsea, but defensive absences increase the chance of both teams scoring. Recommended markets for punters to consider: Chelsea to win & both teams to score, João Pedro anytime scorer, or backing a competitive, goal-filled encounter rather than a low-scoring affair. Monitor Reece James’ fitness late — his availability will influence odds on Chelsea’s defensive solidity.
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