- Date and Time: December 04, 19:30 GMT+1
- Venue: St. Mary’s Stadium, Southampton, England
Southampton vs Chelsea Preview
Southampton
Southampton are only four points behind the saving 17th place, but they have been struggling with losses throughout the season. Russell Martin’s team still have big problems with defensive organization, ball retention under pressure, and finishing chances.
However, in the last two matches, Southampton scored three goals against Liverpool and Brighton, which is a positive sign.
The Saints differ from other Premier League outsiders in their ability to create high-quality combinations and maneuvers. They also have one of the most talented dribblers in the league—18-year-old Tyler Dibling, who creates dangerous moments for his team in every match.
⏭️ Chelsea (h)
You REDS ❤️ pic.twitter.com/11Pd8Mtqo0
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) December 2, 2024
If Dibling had a striker alongside him who could consistently convert chances, Southampton would have a better chance of staying in the Premier League next season.
However, we should not forget that Russell Martin’s team currently critically lacks discipline in defense. At the same time, Southampton has tried to play in different formations, including very defensive setups like the low block 5-4-1 and 5-3-2.
Unfortunately, individual mistakes combined with widespread organizational issues have made it very difficult for Southampton to get out of the relegation zone.
Chelsea
After the draw with Arsenal, Chelsea have played arguably their two best matches of the season in terms of quality of play. The Blues demonstrated a high level of pressing in both games, allowing very few chances.
Of course, Leicester and Aston Villa had opportunities to score, but overall, Enzo Maresca’s team has made tremendous progress in the defensive phase of the game compared to the last two seasons.
#CHEAVL 📸💙 pic.twitter.com/q8lalAEYOf
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 2, 2024
After Thomas Tuchel’s departure, Chelsea, who were in the top three for defensive performance, fell below 9th place in both actual and expected goals conceded.
Thanks to Maresca’s work, Chelsea are among the top five best teams in the Premier League and likely to progress in this component. A key achievement of the Italian coach is that all his players are engaged in pressing and fully understand their roles.
At the same time, Chelsea is playing more and more compactly in the middle block with each match, which also has a positive impact on the team’s results.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 2, 2024
Chelsea’s attacking midfield players, Enzo Fernández and Cole Palmer, are excellent at exploiting half-spaces. They provide the team with quick combinations, creativity, and timely bursts of dangerous shots on goal.
Bet hereSouthampton vs Chelsea Prediction
- Pick: Chelsea to win
- Odds: 1.33 (22Bet)
- Score prediction: Southampton 1-3 Chelsea
Chelsea have beaten mid-table and Premier League outsiders such as Leicester, West Ham, Bournemouth and Wolverhampton in away games this season. In the match against Southampton, the Blues will surely apply their trademark high pressing, which may lead to dangerous moments at the other side’s goal.
In addition, Chelsea’s attacking group are well-positioned to exploit Southampton’s defensive weaknesses, both on the flanks and in the center of the pitch.
Southampton vs Chelsea Prediction, Betting Tip
- Pick: Chelsea Total Over 1.5
- Odds: 1.33 (22Bet)
Chelsea’s attacking players are in great form and fully capable of scoring more than one goal against Southampton.
This season, the Blues have greatly improved their ability to capitalize on chances compared to last season, largely thanks to Nicolas Jackson, who has already scored eight goals in the Premier League.
At the same time, Southampton regularly concede more than one goal per match, which can also be expected in the upcoming game against Chelsea.
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