Prediction: Chelsea vs. Blackburn Rovers – EFL Cup Round of 16 – Nov 1, 2023
A highly anticipated EFL Cup Round of 16 clash awaits as Chelsea hosts Championship side Blackburn Rovers at Stamford Bridge on November 1, 2023. Both teams enter this match with different forms and aspirations. Let’s delve into a detailed analysis of these two teams and what we can expect from this encounter.
Chelsea’s Rollercoaster Season
Chelsea’s season so far can be described as a rollercoaster ride filled with ups and downs. After a promising start, they suffered a damaging defeat to Brentford in a West London derby, which pushed them back into the bottom half of the Premier League table. This defeat was a stark reminder that the Blues are still grappling with consistency issues, despite signs of improvement in recent weeks.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side had briefly regained their footing with a three-game winning streak, which included a victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in the previous round of the EFL Cup. However, they couldn’t capitalize on their momentum, drawing 2-2 against Arsenal in a match where they had the upper hand.
Currently, Chelsea sits with just 12 points from 10 Premier League matches, finding themselves in the lower half of the table. The pressure is mounting on Pochettino to turn things around, and this EFL Cup tie against Blackburn Rovers becomes a crucial fixture that could either alleviate or intensify the pressure on the Argentine manager.
While Chelsea has historically been strong in cup competitions, they have faced challenges in recent years, often being eliminated at the fourth round stage. Their performance in this competition will be closely watched, especially as they face an in-form Blackburn side.
Blackburn Rovers’ Cup Success
Under the management of Jon Dahl Tomasson, Blackburn Rovers have showcased their attacking prowess in the EFL Cup this season. After 17 games in the Championship, they have recorded nine wins, one draw, and seven losses. However, their cup journey has been a different story, characterized by goal-laden victories.
In previous rounds of the EFL Cup, Blackburn Rovers have defeated Walsall 4-3, routed Harrogate Town 8-0, and triumphed 5-2 over fellow Championship side Cardiff City. Their impressive goal-scoring record makes them the top scorers in the competition this season.
Despite their cup success, the fourth round has often been a stumbling block for Blackburn in recent years. Last season, they were eliminated by Premier League opponent Nottingham Forest. The last time Rovers progressed further than this stage was in the 2011-12 season when they reached the quarter-finals before bowing out to Cardiff.
In the Championship, Blackburn has experienced improved form after a slow start, and they currently sit comfortably in 12th place. They are just four points away from playoff contention, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their good run in the EFL Cup.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea Possible Starting Lineup:
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Sanchez
Defenders: Gusto, Disasi, Colwill, Cucurella
Midfielders: Ugochukwu, Gallagher, Caicedo
Forwards: Madueke, Jackson, Maatsen
Blackburn Rovers Possible Starting Lineup:
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Wahlstedt
Defenders: Rankin-Costello, Hill, Carter, Pickering
Midfielders: Tronstad, Garrett, Moran
Forwards: Markanday, Dolan, Szmodics
AD:
Prediction
This EFL Cup clash between Chelsea and Blackburn Rovers promises to be a captivating encounter. Chelsea, despite their inconsistencies, holds the upper hand due to their Premier League status and home advantage. Blackburn’s attacking prowess cannot be underestimated, but their defensive vulnerabilities could be exploited by the Blues.
Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Chelsea 2-1 Blackburn Rovers
Expect both teams to find the net, with Chelsea narrowly edging out Blackburn in what should be an entertaining contest.
Other Betting Markets
Both Teams to Score: Yes
Over/Under 2.5 Goals (Full Time): Over 2.5
Hot Stat: Chelsea has won the last 12 matches against Blackburn Rovers, outscoring them 23-3 during this unbeaten streak.
(Odds are taken from bet365 and are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.T&Cs apply, 18+)
94 average Markets available for Chelsea v Blackburn
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