Chelsea make the short trip to London Stadium on Friday evening aiming to claim their first Premier League victory of the new campaign. Enzo Maresca’s side had to settle for a draw against Crystal Palace on the opening weekend, but the Blues created enough chances late on to suggest they are not far from clicking into gear.
West Ham’s campaign began in disastrous fashion with a 3-0 defeat away at Sunderland. Defensive frailties were evident and goalkeeper Mads Hermansen endured a nightmare debut. Graham Potter’s team were outfought in midfield and looked vulnerable aerially, which will be a major concern ahead of facing a Chelsea side who commit plenty of men forward.
Prediction 1: Chelsea to Win to Nil @ 2/1 (3.00) – Bet Here
The Hammers managed only one shot on target against Sunderland and rarely threatened. Chelsea’s backline, led by captain Reece James, has looked more organised under Maresca and is capable of shutting down a West Ham side short of ideas. The Blues won two of their last three league away games last season to nil, and a repeat appeals.
Prediction 2: Under 2.5 Goals @ 10/11 (1.91) – Bet Here
While Chelsea boast plenty of attacking options, their finishing remains inconsistent. West Ham are likely to sit deep after last week’s defeat, and that could make for a tighter contest. Ten of the Hammers’ last 15 Premier League matches have gone under 2.5 goals, and the odds suggest value in a lower-scoring game.
Prediction 3: Jarrod Bowen to Score Anytime @ 11/4 (3.75) – Bet Here
If the hosts are to threaten, Bowen is the likeliest source. He was the only player to perform at a high level in Sunderland and remains West Ham’s main attacking outlet. His pace and eye for goal could punish any lapse from Chelsea’s backline, making him a live outsider in the goalscorer market.
Value View: Chelsea to win to nil looks a strong angle given West Ham’s poor showing last weekend. However, Bowen’s price to score at any time is worth consideration for those seeking bigger odds.
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