Southampton will host Chelsea in a crucial Premier League clash on 5 December 2024 at St. Mary’s Stadium. With Southampton languishing at the bottom of the table with only 5 points, they face a formidable Chelsea side sitting comfortably in third place with 25 points.
Despite their struggles, Southampton have managed to score consistently in their last five games. However, their defense has been porous, affected by injuries and suspensions. Chelsea, led by Enzo Maresca, are on a six-match unbeaten streak and have been in scintillating form, including a recent 3-0 victory over Aston Villa.
The weather for the game will be cold and overcast with a temperature of 3°C, adding another layer of challenge.
Chelsea are the bookmakers’ favorites, and our match prediction aligns with this, recommending a bet on both teams to score. Given recent form, the recommended bet odds are attractive.
Fans can expect an exciting contest, filled with intensity and tactical prowess from both sides.
Southampton vs Chelsea Prediction & Betting Tip
Given the current form and match facts, our recommended betting tip for this game is “Both teams to score: yes.” Both Southampton and Chelsea have shown an ability to find the back of the net in recent games, making this a sensible bet. Chelsea’s prolific attack, combined with Southampton’s resilience even amid their struggles, sets up an interesting contest.
| Southampton vs Chelsea Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Both teams to score: yes | 1.71 |
- Strong Performance: Chelsea have scored in 12 consecutive matches in this tournament.
- Head-to-Head Trend: In 3 out of the last 5 meetings between these teams, both teams have scored.
- Consistent Scoring: Despite their standings, Southampton have averaged 1.40 goals per game in their last 5 matches.
Southampton vs Chelsea Odds
Heading into the match on December 5, 2024, Chelsea is the heavy favorite given their current form and league position. The Blues have been in impressive form, showcasing a solid defense and a dynamic attack led by Cole Palmer. For bettors, the odds reflect Chelsea’s superiority, although Southampton cannot be discounted entirely, especially with their recent knack for scoring goals.
| Southampton vs Chelsea Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Southampton | 8.74 |
| Draw | 5.91 |
| Chelsea | 1.30 |
It’s a game that promises goals, so even with Chelsea as the favorite, considering a bet on both teams to score may be a wise decision given the stats.
Southampton vs Chelsea Live Streaming: Premier League
The Premier League live broadcast is present in India with the Star Sports Network. The Live streaming of the matches is available on the Disney+Hotstar website and app. Fans can watch Southampton vs Chelsea live streaming on Disney+Hotstar at 1:00 AM on Thursday, December 5).
Southampton Team Analysis
Southampton Recent Performance DLLWW
Southampton has struggled in their recent outings, showing a form of DLLWW. Their last five matches have been a mixed bag, reflecting both promise and difficulties:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Brighton | Southampton | 1-1 (Draw) |
| Southampton | Liverpool | 2-3 (Loss) |
| Wolverhampton | Southampton | 2-0 (Loss) |
| Southampton | Everton | 1-0 (Win) |
| Southampton | Stoke City | 3-2 (Win) |
Despite their position at the bottom of the table, they have managed to score an average of 1.40 goals per game in their last five matches. They’ve only kept one clean sheet, indicating defensive vulnerabilities. The team will need to tighten up their defense, especially facing a potent Chelsea attack.
Southampton Key Players
Southampton’s key player to watch is top scorer Adam Armb, who has netted 2 goals this season. His ability to find the net will be crucial if Southampton is to challenge Chelsea’s robust defense. Paul Onuachu, if declared fit, will also be key up front and could face a gripping duel against Chelsea’s defenders. Expected lineup for Southampton:
- Goalkeeper: Joe Lumley
- Defenders: Yukinari Sugawara, Jack Stephens, Nathan Wood, Kyle Walker-Peters, Ryan Manning
- Midfielders: Joe Aribo, Ryan Fraser, Mateus Fernandes
- Attackers: Paul Onuachu, Adam Armb With a mix of youth and experience, these players will be vital in potentially turning the tide in Southampton’s favor.
Southampton Suspensions & Injuries
Southampton is dealing with a worrisome injury list that could significantly impact their performance against Chelsea. Coach Russell Martin will need to navigate these challenges carefully. Here’s a detailed look at current injuries and suspensions:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Gavin Bazunu | Achilles tendon injury | Mid January 2025 |
| Ross Stewart | Calf injury | A few days |
| Will Smallbone | Hamstring injury | A few days |
| Aaron Ramsdale | Broken finger | Mid December 2024 |
| Jan Bednarek | Muscle injury | Doubtful |
| Paul Onuachu | Knock injury | Doubtful |
| Adam Lallana | Hamstring injury | Mid December 2024 |
| Player | Suspension | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Taylor Harwood-Bellis | Disciplinary points (yellow cards) | 1 match |
| Tyler Dibling | Disciplinary points (yellow cards) | 1 match |
| Flynn Downes | Disciplinary points (yellow cards) | 1 match |
These absences will test Southampton’s squad depth, especially in defense and midfield, as they face a high-flying Chelsea side.
Southampton Tactics and Formation
Southampton Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 5-3-2
- Key Forwards: Paul Onuachu, Adam Armb
- Midfield Trio: Joe Aribo, Ryan Fraser, Mateus Fernandes
- Defensive Set-up: Jack Stephens, Nathan Wood, Kyle Walker-Peters, flanked by full-backs Yukinari Sugawara and Ryan Manning
- Goalkeeper: Joe Lumley
Southampton tends to focus on a sturdy defensive structure, particularly with five at the back to compensate for their struggles this season. Coach Russell Martin emphasizes a compact defense, aiming to keep Chelsea’s potent attack at bay, especially given their vulnerability during the 61-75 minute mark. With their key defender Jan Bednarek out, the back five will need to coordinate closely to avoid conceding. Up front, Adam Armb and Paul Onuachu will look to exploit counter-attacking opportunities.
Chelsea Team Analysis
Chelsea Recent Performance WWWDW
Chelsea have been in excellent form recently, securing four wins and one draw in their last five matches. With an average of 3.20 goals scored and 3 clean sheets in the last five games, they demonstrate both attacking prowess and defensive solidity. They comfortably sit in third place with 25 points, showcasing their consistency and ambition this season.
The following table summarises Chelsea’s last five results:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Chelsea | Aston Villa | 3-0 (Win) |
| FC Heidenheim | Chelsea | 0-2 (Win) |
| Leicester City | Chelsea | 1-2 (Win) |
| Chelsea | Arsenal | 1-1 (Draw) |
| Chelsea | FC Noah | 8-0 (Win) |
Chelsea have maintained a b presence in both domestic and international competitions, further bolstering their confidence heading into this fixture.
Chelsea Key Players
Chelsea’s squad for this match is packed with talent, featuring several key players who can make a significant impact. Cole Palmer stands out as the top scorer for Chelsea this season, with 8 goals to his name. His creativity and goal-scoring ability will be crucial. Nicolas Jackson, the forward, has been showing excellent form and will be looking to add to his goal tally. Enzo Fernández and Moises Caicedo will control the midfield, providing both defensive coverage and attacking support. Marc Cucurella and Levi Colwill will marshal the defense, aiming to keep Southampton’s attackers at bay. Expected lineup for Chelsea:
- Goalkeeper: Robert Sanchez
- Defenders: Malo Gusto, Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Cucurella
- Midfielders: Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, Noni Madueke, João Félix, Cole Palmer
- Forward: Nicolas Jackson Key battles on the pitch will include Nicolas Jackson against Southampton’s Jack Stephens, and Cole Palmer against Joe Aribo.
Chelsea Suspensions & Injuries
Chelsea heads into this match with a few notable absences, which could impact their lineup and performance.
Injuries
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Armando Broja | Achilles tendon injury | Doubtful |
| Reece James | Hamstring Injury | Early January 2025 |
| Wesley Fofana | Hamstring Injury | Early January 2025 |
Chelsea will particularly miss Reece James and Wesley Fofana in defense, both sidelined due to hamstring injuries. Armando Broja’s doubtful status adds to the concerns up front. Despite these setbacks, Chelsea’s depth in the squad should help mitigate these issues.
Interestingly, Chelsea has no players currently suspended for this match, allowing them a bit more flexibility in team selection.
Chelsea Tactics and Formation
Chelsea’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Nicolas Jackson
- Midfield Trio: Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, Cole Palmer
- Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games.
- Notable Strategy: Chelsea tends to maintain high possession and press aggressively, allowing them to dominate midfield and create frequent scoring opportunities.
Chelsea’s playing style under Enzo Maresca is defined by their ability to control the game’s tempo. The midfield pairing of Caicedo and Fernández ensures defensive stability, while Palmer’s creativity in the central attacking role unlocks opposing defenses. With attackers like Noni Madueke and João Félix providing width, Chelsea can stretch defenses and create space for Jackson to exploit down the middle.
Southampton vs Chelsea Head-to-Head Statistics
Analyzing the last five meetings between Southampton and Chelsea provides intriguing insights into this fixture. Here’s a look at how these clashes have panned out recently:
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Chelsea | Southampton | 0-1 |
| Southampton | Chelsea | 2-1 |
| Southampton | Chelsea | 0-6 |
| Chelsea | Southampton | 1-1 (Pen 4-3) |
| Chelsea | Southampton | 3-1 |
Southampton has managed a couple of wins against Chelsea, including a significant 2-1 victory at home. However, Chelsea boasts a dominant 6-0 thrashing in one of the encounters and an overall superior record. Both teams scoring has been a common occurrence, which adds another layer of excitement to this upcoming match.
Venue and Weather
St. Mary’s Stadium, Southampton’s home ground, boasts a seating capacity of approximately 32,384. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it stands as a fortress for the Saints, despite their current struggles in the Premier League. On match day, the forecast shows overcast clouds with a temperature of 3°C. The chilly weather might prompt both teams to start cautiously, conserving energy and focusing on short passes rather than long balls. With minimal wind at 0.52 m/s, aerial play won’t be significantly impacted. The high humidity at 83% could lead to a slippery surface, potentially affecting ball control and footing. Players should adapt by wearing appropriate studs and possibly warming up thoroughly to avoid muscle injuries in the cold conditions.
