Sabasports Match Preview
Premier League: Chelsea vs Manchester United
Kickoff Time: 2024-04-05 03:15 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/Isabel Infantes
In last weekend’s league match, Chelsea were held to a 2-2 draw at
home by 10-man Burnley, which dealt a blow to their morale. However, over their
last nine games, Chelsea have maintained an unbeaten record with five wins and
four draws, indicating that their overall condition is still relatively good.
It is worth mentioning that Cole Palmer has been performing well recently. So
far this season, the 21-year-old Palmer has made 24 appearances for Chelsea in
the Premier League, directly contributing to 21 goals (13 goals and eight
assists), scoring twice in the last game. Chelsea coach Mauricio Pochettino
even praised Palmer, stating that when they are unsure of how to play, giving
the ball to Palmer is the solution, as he seemingly knows what to do. Other players
also recognize Palmer’s abilities, making him the focal point of Chelsea’s
offensive play.
Last weekend, Manchester United faced a 1-1 draw against Brentford in
an away match. Throughout the game, Manchester United were heavily pressured,
with Brentford launching 31 shots on them, creating a one-sided scene.
Statistical data reveals that Manchester United have faced 197 shots from
opponents in the 2024 Premier League season and has been breached in the
penalty area 394 times, making them the team with the highest figures in both
categories. From a tactical standpoint, it appears that Manchester United’s
players have struggled to effectively execute Erik ten Hag’s high-pressing
tactics. Consequently, as the coach, Ten Hag has had to rely on the team reverting
to a more defensive counterattacking approach. This has often put Manchester
United in a passive position during most games. Additionally, opponents seem to
have deciphered Ten Hag’s game plan, capitalizing on Manchester United’s
defensive vulnerabilities to deliver decisive blows. Both in terms of formation
and game tactics, Ten Hag’s performance has been subpar.
Both Manchester United and Chelsea have been performing well in the
league, with slightly better results for Manchester United. However, it is
important to note that Chelsea’s home ground, Stamford Bridge, has been a
significant advantage for them. In their last 10 league home games, Chelsea
have recorded five wins, three draws, and two losses. Even Arsenal and
Manchester City were unable to secure three points when playing at Stamford
Bridge. Considering Chelsea’s strong home form, there is reason to be
optimistic that they can defeat Manchester United and claim all three points in
their upcoming game.
Chlesea’s Last 5 Games: DWWDW
24-03-30 Chelsea 2-2 Burnley
24-03-17 Chelsea 4-2 Leicester City
24-03-12 Chelsea 3-2 Newcastle United
24-03-02 Brentford 2-2 Chelsea
24-02-29 Chelsea 3-2 Leeds United
Manchester United’s Last 5 Games: DDWLW
24-03-31 Brentford 1-1 Manchester United
24-03-17 Manchester United 2-2 Liverpool (AET 4-3)
24-03-09 Manchester United 2-0 Everton
24-03-03 Manchester City 3-1 Manchester United
24-02-29 Nottingham Forest 0-2 Manchester United
Head To Head Record:
23-12-07 Manchester United 2-1 Chelsea
23-05-26 Manchester United 4-1 Chelsea
22-10-23 Chelsea 1-1 Manchester United
22-04-29 Manchester United 1-1 Chelsea
21-11-29 Chelsea 1-1 Manchester United
Prediction: Chelsea to win