Chelsea in Trouble? Bournemouth Smell Blood at Vitality Stadium
Bournemouth in Bad Form
Bournemouth need a quick turnaround after a poor run in the Premier League. A 1–0 home loss to Everton extended their streak without a win to five matches. That slide has pushed them down to 14th, although they are still only five points from the top four.
Defensive Problems Growing
Coach Andoni Iraola knows the biggest issue is defence. Bournemouth have conceded 13 goals in their last five games, two more than in their opening weeks of the season. The defeat to Everton was their first home league loss of the campaign. Now they must avoid losing two straight at Vitality Stadium for the first time since April.
Chelsea Need a Response
Chelsea travel south after a poor 3–1 defeat to Leeds that damaged their already slim title hopes. Coach Enzo Maresca has reason to worry. Chelsea entered this round nine points behind leaders Arsenal, and the dream of winning a first title since 2017 looks further away.
The Leeds result was only their second defeat in eight league matches. With six previous away games unbeaten, Chelsea arrive with a strong chance to bounce back and get back on track.
Head-to-Head History
Bournemouth have failed to win any of their last seven league meetings with Chelsea. Chelsea have won three of the last four between the two sides. Bournemouth have only beaten Chelsea once in eight Premier League games at Vitality Stadium.
Key Stats
Bournemouth score early. They have already scored five goals in the first 15 minutes of matches this season. However, home games at Vitality have averaged just 2.14 goals this year.
Chelsea have failed to score in only one of their 14 league games this season. They have lost both matches that kicked off on Saturdays at 3 p.m.
Players to Watch
Justin Kluivert has only one Premier League goal this season, but he scored against Chelsea back in January. João Pedro scored in both meetings last season before the 15-minute mark. When he scores early, Chelsea usually lose.
Bournemouth are without Tyler Adams through suspension. Chelsea will miss Moisés Caicedo in midfield.
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