Chelsea vs West Ham: Betting Tips, Odds and Prediction

London derbies in the Premier League always have a bit of extra spice, and this Sunday morning’s clash between Chelsea and West Ham at Stamford Bridge is no different. I have spent the week looking at the numbers and reckon we’re in for a great match this weekend.

Chelsea are finally starting to find form, while West Ham are coming off a decent win but still have plenty to prove. I have broken down the squads and the latest form to find the best value on betting sites in New Zealand. Stick around for my full preview, including a $3.10 play for those of you looking to bet on football.

Chelsea

I like what I’m seeing from Chelsea lately. They’ve managed to find a level of consistency that has been missing for years. The 3-1 win over Crystal Palace last time out showed quality, and it feels like they’re finally pulling in the same direction. They sit in the top five, and a win here would cement their status as Champions League contenders.

The depth in this squad is impressive. Even when key players are out, someone else steps up. The home crowd will be buzzing for this one, and if they can start fast, West Ham will struggle to live with them. Chelsea have been dominant at Stamford Bridge and I expect more of the same.

Team News: Estevao is back to full fitness after a bout of flu, which is a massive boost. Levi Colwill is still out, but Tosin Adarabioyo has filled in well.

Predicted Lineup: Sanchez; James, Acheampong, Adarabioyo, Cucurella; Enzo, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Estevao; Pedro.

West Ham

West Ham are a tough nut to crack on their day, but they have been inconsistent this season. Their recent 3-1 win over Sunderland was much needed, but facing Chelsea in West London is a different challenge. Nuno Espirito Santo has them better organised at the back, but they still look vulnerable when teams run at them with pace.

I’m not convinced by their away form. They’ve struggled to impose themselves on the bigger teams on the road, often sitting back and hoping for a miracle on the counter. If they want anything from this match, Lucas Paqueta needs to have the game of his life.

Team News: Tomas Soucek is back after his ban, which adds much-needed steel to the midfield.

Predicted Lineup: Areola; Walker-Peters, Mavropanos, Kilman, Diouf; Soucek, Ward-Prowse; Bowen, Paqueta, Fernandes; Fullkrug.

• Chelsea have won their last four home league matches against West Ham.
• West Ham have conceded at least two goals in each of their last three trips to Stamford Bridge.
• Cole Palmer has 10 goal involvements in his last eight appearances in all competitions.
• Football betting markets currently have Chelsea as heavy favourites, which is fair given the gap in quality.

I can’t see anything other than a home win here. Chelsea have too much firepower, and with Estevao back, they will be constant trouble on the wings. West Ham will try to keep it tight and frustrate them, but I reckon the deadlock will break before half-time.

I’m picking a 2-1 victory for Chelsea. They’ve been solid enough at the back recently, but West Ham’s attack found its rhythm in their win over Sunderland and should manage to nick a goal. Check out the latest New Zealand betting apps for the best prices on this result.

Chelsea to win and Both Teams to Score @ $3.10

This single market offers excellent value. While I expect Chelsea to win, they’ve struggled to keep clean sheets recently, conceding a late goal in their 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace. West Ham showed they have goals in them during their recent three-one win over Sunderland, and with Soucek returning to provide midfield presence, I expect them to find the net even in a losing effort at Stamford Bridge.