Saturday, 12:30 – Turf Moor
Premier League · Live on TNT Sports 1
Betting Tips
- Over 2.5 goals @ 4/5
- Chelsea to win 2-1 @ 8/1
(Odds subject to change.)
Chelsea can turn the screw in early kick-off
Chelsea head to Turf Moor with the chance to lay down an early marker in the weekend’s Premier League action, and a meeting with a fragile Burnley defence should give them every opportunity to collect three points in an open contest.
Burnley’s defeat at West Ham last time out was another worrying step in the wrong direction, both in terms of the table and performance levels. Kompany’s side have already racked up seven league defeats and only one Premier League team has conceded more goals, which is a stark contrast to the organised unit that dominated the Championship not so long ago.
The Clarets aren’t completely toothless, though. They’ve found the net reasonably often for a side hovering near the drop and their matches have become increasingly stretched. Five of their last seven outings in all competitions have featured at least three goals, as Burnley continue to commit bodies forward but leave space at the back.
Chelsea arrive with their own trend for high-scoring games. The Blues’ league fixtures are averaging close to three goals per match and Maresca’s attacking philosophy has ensured that seven of their last eight games have gone over the 2.5 line. With both teams happier going forward than defending for long periods, over 2.5 goals looks a very straightforward starting selection.
Blues’ quality should tell
Where this game may ultimately be decided is in the final third. Burnley’s back line has been repeatedly exposed, conceding two or more goals in six of their past seven matches, and facing a Chelsea side with improving confidence in attack is hardly ideal.
The visitors, by contrast, have looked increasingly dangerous on their travels. They’ve struck at least twice in four of their last five away fixtures, and if they reach that mark again it’s difficult to see Burnley having enough control to turn the tide.
That said, the hosts do carry a punch of their own and can capitalise if Chelsea switch off at any stage. A competitive encounter where Burnley land a blow but are outgunned feels the likeliest pattern, making Chelsea to win 2-1 an appealing correct-score option to pair with the goals angle.
Recommended Bets
- Over 2.5 goals @ 4/5
- Chelsea to win 2-1 @ 8/1
