Wolves vs Chelsea Predictions – Wolves and Chelsea are set to clash at Molineux on Sunday in what will be just the second Premier League fixture ever played on Christmas Eve. The only other Premier League game to be staged on this day was back in 1995 when Leeds beat Manchester United 3-1.
This upcoming match will mark the first time Wolves have played on Christmas Eve since 1966 when they recorded an entertaining 5-3 victory over Derby.
Close Table Battle
With just three points separating Wolves and Chelsea, both teams are eager to secure a victory and climb up the table. A win for Wolves would see them leapfrog the Blues in the standings, adding an extra layer of intensity to this exciting encounter.
Team News
Wolves will be delighted to welcome back goalkeeper Jose Sa, who has been passed fit after missing the previous match against West Ham due to a shoulder issue. Additionally, Pedro Neto is in contention for a comeback after recovering from a hamstring injury. However, Jonny Otto is absent due to a disciplinary matter, and Joe Hodge, who has been training after a shoulder problem, will not be available for this clash.
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On the other hand, Chelsea will have to cope without key midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who is sidelined due to illness. Furthermore, captain Reece James will be out for an extended period after undergoing hamstring surgery. However, Romeo Lavia, Noni Madueke, and Lesley Ugochukwu are all back in training, and Lavia could make his Chelsea debut in this game following his summer arrival from Southampton.
Statistical Analysis
Wolves have been in excellent form at home, going unbeaten in their last six matches. During this impressive run, they secured victories against Manchester City, Tottenham, and Burnley, while also drawing against Aston Villa, Newcastle, and Nottingham Forest. Furthermore, Wolves have a solid recent record against Chelsea at Molineux, having remained unbeaten in their last three meetings with victories of 2-1 and 1-0, along with a goalless draw.
However, Chelsea’s away form has been a cause for concern, as they have suffered three consecutive defeats to Newcastle, Manchester United, and Everton. In addition, they also lost to West Ham earlier in the season. The Blues have collected just 10 points from their eight away league games, scoring and conceding 13 goals in the process.
Wolves vs Chelsea Predictions
Considering Chelsea’s unpredictable form this season, it is difficult to confidently back them in this fixture. Their recent three-game losing streak away from home, coupled with potential fatigue from their midweek Carabao Cup match, raises questions about their performance. In contrast, Wolves have had a few extra days of rest and are unbeaten in their last six home matches.
Under the guidance of Gary O’Neil, Wolves have proven to be a tough team to beat at Molineux. With their fresher squad, they have a genuine opportunity to claim an early Christmas present by securing all three points in this match. Therefore, the recommended bet for this fixture is to back Wolves for the win.