Chelsea returns to the American Express Stadium for a rematch against Brighton & Hove Albion, just days after suffering a 2-1 defeat in the FA Cup. In that encounter, Chelsea struggled significantly, showcasing a lineup that lacked several key players, including Reece James and Nicolas Jackson, which contributed to their lackluster performance.
This fixture has developed into a fiercely competitive rivalry in recent years, despite Chelsea's dominance in their last ten meetings—except for the recent FA Cup match. The tension stems from Chelsea's tendency to acquire some of Brighton's standout talents, such as Moises Caicedo and Marc Cucurella, as well as their hiring of Graham Potter as manager a few seasons ago.
Match Details
- Kick-off Time: 3 PM ET on Friday, February 14, 2025
- Location: American Express Stadium, Falmer
- TV Channel: USA – The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK and is accessible through local Premier League TV rights holders in other countries.
Chelsea will also provide coverage through their Matchday Live show, starting five minutes before kick-off, available on their website and the Official Chelsea App. This will include live audio commentary and minute-by-minute updates in the Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Chelsea Match Centre.
Team News
Brighton: Despite a lengthy injury list, Brighton managed to perform well in the recent FA Cup match. Their attacking players are capable of making a significant impact, with Danny Welbeck known for finding the net in crucial games.
- Injured: Igor Julio (hamstring), Jason Steele (shoulder), James Milner (thigh), Ferdi Kadioglu (toe), Solly March (fitness)
- Questionable: Pervis Estupinan (undisclosed), Mats Wieffer (knock), Lewis Dunk (lower back)
Chelsea: Chelsea is dealing with several absences, particularly in their forward positions. Christopher Nkunku struggled as a striker in their last match, leading to speculation that head coach Enzo Maresca might make adjustments.
Nicolas Jackson's return is uncertain due to a hamstring concern, and if he is not fit to play, Cole Palmer might take on a false nine role, or Tyrique George could be given a chance at center forward.
Match Prediction
This match is expected to be closely contested, but Chelsea's superior quality in both midfield and attack could enable them to secure a narrow victory. Prediction: Brighton 1 - 2 Chelsea.
Predicted Lineups
Brighton (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Bart Verbruggen
- Defenders: Joel Veltman, Lewis Dunk (C), Eiran Chashin, Tariq Lamptey
- Midfielders: Matt O’Reilly, Jack Hinshelwood
- Forwards: Simon Adingra, Joao Pedro, Kaoru Mitoma, Danny Welbeck
Chelsea (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Filip Jorgensen
- Defenders: Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella
- Midfielders: Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez (C)
- Forwards: Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Jadon Sancho, Christopher Nkunku
This exciting matchup promises to deliver another chapter in this evolving rivalry between Brighton and Chelsea.
Zainab Y.
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