๐ ๐ซ๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ข๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฆ ๐๐
Aston Villa is set to strengthen their position in the Premier League's top four when they face off against Chelsea at Villa Park this coming Saturday. Holding fourth place, Aston Villa is six points clear of Tottenham, which is fifth with two additional games yet to play.ย
This crucial matchup gives Villa the chance to extend their lead and intensify the race for the coveted final Champions League qualification spot. Aston Villa's recent performances at home have been particularly strong, suggesting they have a good chance of success in the upcoming game. They are looking to capitalize on this momentum against a Chelsea team that is currently struggling.
Chelsea's recent performance was notably poor, suffering a 5-0 defeat at the hands of Arsenal, which has significantly dented their morale and their standing in the league. Now in ninth place, Chelsea's prospects of qualifying for European competition are dwindling, adding to the pressure they face in this match.
Given Chelseaโs recent poor offensive performances away from home and Aston Villa's strong defensive record at Villa Park, this could be a valuable bet.
The betting tip is...
Aston Villa to keep a clean sheet
68 %
32 %
Brazilian midfielder Douglas Luiz is set to return to Aston Villa's lineup after completing a two-match suspension, and he is anticipated to start in their upcoming match.
Aston Villa has been formidable at home, currently riding a five-match unbeaten streak in all competitions. This impressive form has propelled them into the semi-finals of the Europa Conference League and helped sustain their pursuit of a top-four finish in the Premier League.
The Villans have one of the best home records in the league, amassing 38 points from 17 matches. Their offensive prowess is evident, as they have scored 43 goals at home, a figure that ties them for the highest in the league.
Under manager Unai Emery, the team has excelled in attacking play, failing to score in only one of their last 13 league games. Given their current form and the vulnerabilities of their upcoming opponents, Aston Villa is looking forward to the challenge of facing a beleaguered Chelsea side.
Jacob Ramsey, Tyrone Mings, Boubacar Kamara, Emiliano Buendia, and Alex Moreno are all sidelined due to injuries.
Predicted Lineup: Martรญnez (GK), Digne, Torres, Konsa, Cash, McGinn, Tielemans, Bailey, Watkins, Diaby, Rogers
Cole Palmer missed Chelsea's recent defeat to Arsenal due to illness, but there is hope he will be available for selection.ย Chelsea's recent form has been troubling, particularly in away games. They have endured consecutive away losses, including a 1-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-finals and a severe 5-0 loss at Arsenal in the Premier League.ย
Defensively, Chelsea has been vulnerable in away matches, conceding 32 goals in 16 top-flight games. Additionally, they have been unable to secure a clean sheet in their last 16 away fixtures.
After an eight-game unbeaten streak in all competitions, Chelsea appeared to be gaining momentum. However, this progress was abruptly halted by two consecutive defeats, including the significant loss to Arsenal, increasing the scrutiny on manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Overall, Chelsea has struggled in their away league matches, managing only two wins in their last 11 outings.
Romeo Lavia, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, and Reece James are still out injured and will miss the upcoming match.
Predicted Lineup: Petroviฤ (GK), Cucurella, Disasi, Badiashile, Gilchrist, Gallagher, Mudryk, Fernรกndez, Caicedo, Madueke, Jackson
Aston Villa has been in excellent form, especially at home, and they are looking to solidify their top-four position. With a strong attacking record at Villa Park and Chelsea struggling defensively on the road, Aston Villa is well-positioned to take full advantage of Chelsea's recent form woes.
The return of Douglas Luiz will also bolster Villa's midfield, enhancing their ability to control the game. Considering Chelsea's struggles in away games and the recent heavy defeat to Arsenal, Aston Villa is likely to secure a comfortable win.
