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Premier League – Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Chelsea: In a clash of contrasting fortunes, a resurgent Chelsea side with their eyes set on continental football visits a Brighton & Hove Albion team grappling with dashed European aspirations.
As these teams prepare to face off in a midweek Premier League fixture, the stage is set for an intriguing battle at the Amex Stadium.
Recent Form and Performance
Chelsea comes into this match on the back of a thrilling 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest, showcasing their attacking prowess.
The Blues have been on an upward trajectory under Mauricio Pochettino, winning three consecutive Premier League games and asserting their dominance in the race for seventh place.
On the other hand, Brighton & Hove Albion has endured a challenging season, typified by their recent 1-1 draw with Newcastle United.
The Seagulls have struggled in front of goal, failing to score more than once in their last 14 matches across all competitions.
Despite their mid-table status, Graham Potter’s side has shown resilience and will be eager to secure a positive result against Chelsea.
Team News
Brighton will be without several key players due to injuries. Julio Enciso, Joao Pedro, Solly March, Kaoru Mitoma, Jack Hinshelwood, Pervis Estupinan, James Milner, Evan Ferguson, and Jan Paul van Hecke are all sidelined, leaving Potter with a depleted squad.
However, Tariq Lamptey is expected to start against his former club, providing an attacking threat down the right flank.
Chelsea, meanwhile, has a relatively healthier squad. Ben Chilwell, Robert Sanchez, Carney Chukwuemeka, Romeo Lavia, Wesley Fofana, and Enzo Fernandez are still recovering from injuries but are nearing full fitness.
Mauricio Pochettino may opt for rotation, with Raheem Sterling, Malo Gusto, and Axel Disasi pushing for starting berths.
Head-to-Head
Historically, Chelsea has had the upper hand in this fixture, winning their last encounter at Stamford Bridge 3-2.
However, Brighton will be buoyed by their 4-1 victory over Chelsea in the previous season at Amex Stadium or Falmer Stadium and will look to replicate that performance.
Prediction
Given Chelsea’s recent form and attacking prowess, they are likely to come out on top in this fixture. Brighton’s defensive vulnerabilities could be exploited by the likes of Sterling and Nicolas Jackson, who have been in fine form for the Blues.
Probable Lineups
Brighton & Hove Albion: [Verbruggen; Lamptey, Dunk, Webster, Igor; Gilmour, Gross; Adingra, Buonanotte, Fati; Welbeck]
Chelsea: [Petrovic; Gusto, Disasi, Badiashile, Cucurella; Caicedo, Gallagher; Sterling, Palmer, Mudryk; Jackson].
Read Also: Premier League: Manchester United vs. Newcastle United Preview, Prediction, Team News, Lineups
Conclusion
As Brighton & Hove Albion host Chelsea, both teams have contrasting objectives. While Chelsea aims to secure European football, Brighton seeks to salvage pride. Expect an entertaining clash with Chelsea likely to emerge victorious.
