Brentford host Chelsea at the Gtech Community Stadium in a West London derby on Friday that should test the visitors’ ability to handle direct pressure and transitions.
Keith Andrews can use Igor Thiago as the focal point, with Kevin Schade’s pace offering a threat behind Chelsea’s defensive line. Chelsea should have more attacking variety through Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and João Pedro, whose movement and combinations can pull Brentford out of shape.
Brentford’s physical approach can disrupt Chelsea, but Xabi Alonso’s side will have opportunities if Palmer and Rogers consistently receive possession between midfield and defense.
Brentford is coming off a 2-2 road draw against AFC Bournemouth on Saturday while Chelsea had a 2-2 home draw against Hull City on Saturday.
Brentford is in sixth place in the Premier League standings with six points in four games while Chelsea is in fifth place with seven points in four games.
The player to watch in this game is Igor Thiago, who has zero goals and zero assists in four Premier League games this season. AccuScore gives Thiago a 50% chance to score against Chelsea.
According to Opta Analyst, Thiago’s Expected Goals per Shot (xG Per Shot) this season stands at 0.26.
Dafabet Odds
Team to Win (Regular Time)
- Brentford 2.75
- Chelsea 2.42
- Draw 3.70
Spread
- Brentford 0 (2.04)
- Chelsea 0 (1.74)
Total
- Over 3 (1.90)
- Under 3 (1.85)
Key Points to Consider
Head-to-Head: These two teams last met in Premier League action on January 17 and Chelsea won 2-0.
Projected Leaders
For Brentford, Igor Thiago has a 50% chance score, followed by Kevin Schade (24%) and Dango Ouattara (23%).
For Chelsea, Cole Palmer has a 35% to score, followed by João Pedro (34%) and Morgan Rogers (27%).
Analyst’s Pick
Brentford 2.75
AccuScore gives Brentford a 40.4% chance to win this game. Average score in simulations is Brentford 1.6 to Chelsea 1.5.
