Sabasports Match Preview
Premier League: Chelsea vs Everton
Kickoff Time: 2024-04-16 03:00 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/Peter Powell
In the last round of the league, Chelsea faced Sheffield United and
ended with a 2-2 draw as the visiting team. The result was disappointing for
Chelsea, especially because they conceded a goal in the final moments of the
match, which had a negative impact on their morale. However, it is worth noting
that Chelsea have been on an unbeaten streak in their last 11 games, with six
wins and five draws. Overall, their form has been relatively good. One
noticeable aspect is that Chelsea have not yet found the right balance between
their offensive and defensive play. From a statistical perspective, Chelsea
have scored 55 goals while conceding 52 in the league so far. This indicates
that they have been both productive in scoring goals and vulnerable in
conceding them. The defensive issues are particularly prominent, suggesting
that there is still room for improvement in Mauricio Pochettino’s defensive
training. It appears that they are still in a developmental phase and requires
further strengthening in their defensive organization.
In the last round, Everton secured a 1-0 victory over Burnley at home,
finally ending their 10-match win-less streak in all competitions. However, the
club recently encountered a setback as they were deducted two points by Premier
League officials for violating profitability and sustainable development rules.
This deduction has put Everton in a precarious position, as they are currently
only two points clear of the relegation zone. Their situation in the relegation
battle remains uncertain. Everton primarily employ a 4-4-1-1 formation, and
their tactics revolve around defensive counterattacks. Under manager Sean
Dyche, they place great emphasis on compressing the space in their defensive
half. Regardless of the opponent’s position on the field, at least three
defenders are required to be positioned within the vertical extension lines of
the two penalty areas. From a statistical standpoint, Everton have scored 32
goals and conceded 42 in the league so far. While their offensive output is
average, their defensive performance has been relatively solid.
While Chelsea may be considered stronger and more consistent than
Everton overall, it is true that Everton have had a relatively decent record in
their recent encounters with Chelsea. Over the last five matches between them,
Everton have achieved two wins, two draws, and one loss. This track record
indicates that Everton have been able to compete well against Chelsea and have
managed to secure points against them. Considering Chelsea’s vulnerabilities in
defense, Everton, who are currently in a position where they desperately need
points, may see this as an opportunity to capitalize on their opponent’s
weaknesses.
Chelsea’s Last 5 Games: DWDWW
24-04-08 Sheffield United 2-2 Chelsea
24-04-05 Chelsea 4-3 Manchester United
24-03-30 Chelsea 2-2 Burnley
24-03-17 Chelsea 4-2 Leicester City
24-03-12 Chelsea 3-2 Newcastle United
Everton’s Last 5 Games: WDLLL
24-04-06 Everton 1-0 Burnley
24-04-03 Newcastle United 1-1 Everton
24-03-30 Bournemouth 2-1 Everton
24-03-09 Manchester United 2-0 Everton
24-03-02 Everton 1-3 West Ham United
Head To Head Record:
23-12-10 Everton 2-0 Chelsea
23-03-19 Chelsea 2-2 Everton
22-08-07 Everton 0-1 Chelsea
22-05-01 Everton 1-0 Chelsea
21-12-17 Chelsea 1-1 Everton
Prediction: Everton to win or
Draw