Blues Baggies is a mismatch
Thomas Tuchel’s watertight Chelsea welcome toothless West Bromwich Albion to Stamford Bridge this weekend, looking to kick on and confirm their spot in the top four for next season. Just six points behind second placed Manchester United now they will have that placing in their sights while also preparing for Champions League outings, getting drawn against Porto in the quarter finals looks favourable. The Blues are naturally very short in the outright market for this fixture however combined with their incredible defensive record since the German took the reigns it was quite straightforward to find our angle into this one.
Process
Chelsea have conceded just two goals in 14 matches, incredible. Including a double shutout against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, therefore Sam Allardyce’s negative style and lack of adventure will see this one play out in a very difficult, backs to the wall style for the Baggies. It has been a season of near misses for the hosts, hence why they do not find themselves competing for the title, racking up strong expected goals (xG) figures but struggling to turn that into goal output. They have underperformed by nearly six goals, scoring 44 from 49.6 xG, those metrics could be a lot more aligned come the end of the season, Tuchel has an insanely talented squad at his disposal, WBA have their work cut out.
The Baggies rank rock bottom for xGF and xGA, destined to go down with a whimper and left at a crossroads in the summer in terms of who will be in charge next term. M’Baye Diagne has made an impact arriving in January, providing a physical tussle up top but he does not get enough chances, a severe lack of quality service has seen him fairly ineffective.
Goals?
An immediate look to the unders market seems a little risky, the Blues could put a despondent West Brom to the sword.
- Chelsea have scored in eight of 10.
- Chelsea have conceded in one of 10.
- Chelsea have seen both teams score in one of 10.
- Chelsea have seen over 2.5 goals in none of 10.
- WBA have scored in four of 10.
- WBA have conceded in eight of 10.
- WBA have seen both teams score in three of 10.
- WBA have seen over 2.5 goals in three of 10.
It is a mismatch on paper and by looking at the underlying numbers. This match presents an excellent opportunity for Chelsea to regather their pre international break momentum with a big win here.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
Chelsea's 10 men capitulated to a 5-2 loss.