The Premier League serves up another appetizing London derby tonight as West Ham United host Chelsea at 21:00 BST at the London Stadium. Both teams head into this game with a lot to prove—West Ham are looking to put their thrashing by Sunderland on the first day of the season behind them, while Chelsea are keen to get their first win of the new season under their belt after having to make do with a nil-nil draw with Crystal Palace.
This has nothing to do with three points; it's bragging rights in London, tactical battles, and the opportunity for both teams to seize early momentum throughout the Premier League 2025/26 season.
West Ham vs Chelsea Team News
Chelsea Team Updates
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca faces a selection dilemma as big guns are absent:
- Nicolas Jackson was not picked amidst ongoing transfer talks with Aston Villa (Reuters).
- Christopher Nkunku is also absent, subject to rumors regarding his future.
- Levi Colwill is ruled out for most of the season with an ACL injury.
- Wesley Fofana is restored to the team, providing defensive support even in the face of transfer rumors.
West Ham Team Updates
Manager Graham Potter—playing against his former team—has to contend with a significant set of absences:
- Crysencio Summerville is out with a hamstring injury.
- Luis Guilherme is out with a fractured collarbone (TalkSport).
Potter has called for sharp recruitment in the remaining transfer window (The Guardian).
Head-to-Head Stats
- Chelsea have won 7 of the last 10 encounters against West Ham.
- The Blues have a three-match winning streak in this game.
- West Ham's last home victory against Chelsea was in 2021.
For full H2H records and statistics, see The Analyst.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea (4-3-3): Petrovic; James, Fofana, Silva, Chilwell; Caicedo, Fernandez, Gallagher; Mudryk, Palmer, Sterling.
West Ham (4-2-3-1): Areola; Coufal, Aguerd, Mavropanos, Emerson; Alvarez, Ward-Prowse; Bowen, Kudus, Cornet; Antonio.
(Official lineups to be confirmed one hour before kick-off on Premier League's official site).
Key Battles to Watch
- Declan Rice's absence (post-transfer) still weighs heavily over West Ham, with James Ward-Prowse needing to marshal the middle against Chelsea's duo of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez.
- Raheem Sterling and Cole Palmer will attempt to expose West Ham's defense, particularly with the Hammers' recent troubles with injuries up front.
- Thiago Silva vs Michail Antonio is likely to be a battle of strength that decides West Ham's attacking capability.
Predictions and Odds
Betting algorithms forecast that Chelsea have a 54.6% likelihood of winning, while West Ham's chances total 22% (The Analyst).
- Forecast scoreline: Chelsea to win 2–1 or 3–0.
- Betting odds: Chelsea –151, West Ham +400, Draw +275 (FOX Sports).
Where to Watch West Ham vs Chelsea Live
- UK: Sky Sports Premier League.
- USA: NBC Sports / Peacock.
- Australia: Stan Sport.
- India: JioCinema / Hotstar.
Viewers can also access live updates and commentary on Chelsea FC Official and West Ham United Official.
Final Verdict
This London derby will bring drama, intensity, and tactical combat. West Ham will be hoping for the home advantage to spring the surprise, but Chelsea's deeper squad and defensive prowess give the ammo.
Expect Chelsea to get the win, but don't rule out a brave West Ham performance from Graham Potter.
Related Links
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