Arsenal Aim to Maintain Lead Despite City’s Advantage
Arsenal secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton on Saturday and now lead the Premier League table heading into this crucial London derby against Chelsea. However, with only five games remaining and all three title contenders playing midweek fixtures, the Gunners know they can’t afford any missteps.
Manchester City hold a game in hand on Arsenal, and two after this clash, meaning the Gunners’ title hopes aren’t entirely in their own control following City’s recent defeat to Aston Villa. Nevertheless, Arsenal boast a strong record against Chelsea in recent Premier League meetings, with just one defeat in their last eight encounters (W5, D2).
Additionally, they have a remarkable home record on Tuesdays, losing only once in a Premier League match at home on this day of the week since 2005 (W11, D7). This includes a 3-1 victory over Chelsea at home last season, which serves as a positive omen for Arsenal fans.
Chelsea Target European Qualification After FA Cup Exit
Chelsea’s FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City means the Premier League is their only remaining route to secure European football next season. The Blues’ campaign has been inconsistent, but their recent form offers a glimmer of hope.
They currently sit just three points behind sixth place with a game in hand, putting them in contention for European qualification.
Despite their unbeaten run in the league (W4, D4), Chelsea haven’t defeated a top-four team this season (D4, L2). Additionally, their away record on Tuesdays is concerning, with four losses in their last five Premier League away games on this day.
Players to Watch
- Arsenal: Bukayo Saka will be looking to end his goal drought since his last Premier League goal coming against Brighton, and has only scored twice in his last seven Premier League games. The English winger also got an assist in the reverse fixture so he is one to look out for in this.
- Chelsea: There is no other man to Look forward to than Chelsea’s shinning star of the season (Cole Palmer). having also scored in the reverse fixture, the inform Chelsea man with nine goals in his last five games is someone the steel Gunners defence have to be prepared for.
Hot Stat
- 11 out of Chelsea’s last 12 Premier League away games have seen both teams score. This suggests an exciting encounter with goals at both ends could be on the cards.
