A London Derby treat is coming our way this Sunday as Chelsea face Tottenham at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea
Chelsea marked the start to their 2022/2023 Premier League campaign with a humble 1-0 victory over Everton last weekend. The Blues have unsurprisingly dictated the game against the hosts, but it was just a single goal from Jorginho from the penalty spot that secured Tuchel`s side the 3 points and there is certainly room for improvement going into a clash against Tottenham. Looking at the history of this match-up, Chelsea have the upper hand – Tottenham have failed to get a single win against the Blues in their last 7 games across all competitions. Nevertheless, it is a new season and currently Chelsea have displayed hints of a few missing elements in their attack. Raheem Sterling has been an excellent addition; however, the Englishman now finds himself playing upfront in the center as opposed to out wide – highlighting Chelsea`s absence of a number 9. The lack of finishing chances can be noticed in a few of their pre-season games and now in the Premier League and can be a huge disadvantage playing against Tottenham. In defense the Blues have some serious power which will take an extra effort from Tottenham to break, but in their attacking play they are yet to show that they can cause damage, which can be the pivotal factor separating the 2 sides on Sunday.
Tottenham
Aside from conceding a single goal last weekend, Tottenham could not have asked to a better start to their season. Antonio Conte`s side went down at the opening weekend thanks to a goal from James Ward-Prowse, however it did not take them too long for an equalizer from Ryan Sessegnon to find the back of the net followed by a lead-taking header from Eric Dier. The second-half goal scoring was highlighted by an own goal from Mohammed Salisu and a bottom-corner classic finish from Kulusevski. To sum the previously mentioned up – Conte has established a dangerous attacking style at Spurs with players from most parts of the pitch getting on the attack and hence is a great strength going into the clash on Sunday. With just 1 goal conceded Spurs have showed positives in their defensive play, however it is reasonable to say that their defense is yet to be tested against a strong attack and Chelsea have the potential to do so if Tuchel addresses his attacking problems – leaving room for Tottenham to concede for a second week in a row.
Verdict
Personally, for me, Tottenham look like the more well-oiled side out of the 2. Conte has shown a clear direction and persistence in his style of play which has successfully translated onto the field last weekend, but their defense is yet to be tested. Although it would be unfair to write Chelsea off and it is fair to back the Blues, Tuchel`s side has a few elements missing in attack and when the 2 sides are fairly matched on paper in the other parts of the field - can be the pivotal factor of the outcome.
BetOlimp Best Bets
Both teams to score: yes – 1.75