The Premier League action continues this Friday as Brighton & Hove Albion take on Chelsea at the Amex Stadium, just days after their thrilling FA Cup encounter. With Chelsea seeking revenge and Brighton eager to maintain their momentum, this clash promises excitement and drama.
Match Preview
Chelsea travel to the South Coast aiming to bounce back from their FA Cup fourth-round exit, where Brighton secured a narrow 2-1 victory. The Blues are still pushing for a top-four finish, but their recent away form has been shaky, failing to win any of their last four Premier League games on the road.
On the other hand, Brighton’s confidence is on the rise following their FA Cup win, a crucial victory after suffering a humiliating 7-0 loss to Nottingham Forest. With a European qualification spot still within reach, the Seagulls will look to build on their latest success.
Brighton’s Recent Form & Key Concerns
- Brighton have recorded just two wins in their last 12 Premier League matches (D6, L4).
- Their home league form is concerning, having failed to win in five consecutive games at the Amex.
- Despite their inconsistency, Brighton have caused Chelsea problems in recent meetings, and they’ll aim for a repeat of their FA Cup success.
Chelsea’s Struggles & Champions League Push
- Chelsea sit fourth in the Premier League, just two points ahead of Manchester City and Newcastle United.
- Their away struggles continue, with their last victory on the road coming against Tottenham in early December.
- Chelsea will be motivated to complete a Premier League double over Brighton, having won the reverse fixture 4-2 at Stamford Bridge in September.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Brighton’s Injury Updates
Brighton are without key players, including Jason Steele (shoulder), Ferdi Kadioglu (toe), Igor Julio (hamstring), James Milner (hamstring), and Solly March (muscle). Lewis Dunk faces a late fitness test after picking up a rib injury in the FA Cup win. Pervis Estupinan and Mats Wieffer remain doubtful.
🟢 Brighton’s Possible Starting XI: Verbruggen; Veltman, Van Hecke, Webster, Lamptey; Baleba, Gomez; Minteh, Rutter, Mitoma; Pedro
Chelsea’s Injury Concerns
Chelsea continue to miss key players like Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Romeo Lavia, Omari Kellyman, and Marc Guiu. Mykhaylo Mudryk remains suspended due to a provisional doping ban. Nicolas Jackson is out for six weeks with a hamstring injury. Reece James is expected to return, while several players, including Enzo Fernandez and Noni Madueke, push for recalls.
🔵 Chelsea’s Possible Starting XI: Jorgensen; James, Adarabioyo, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, Sancho; Nkunku
Match Prediction
Chelsea will be eager to respond after their FA Cup disappointment, but Brighton’s resilience at home makes this a tough fixture.
Given Brighton’s habit of drawing games at the Amex (6 draws in 11 matches), another stalemate seems likely.
Prediction: Brighton & Hove Albion 2-2 Chelsea
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