Chelsea - Bournemouth predictions and free betting tips [19/05/2024]

On Sunday, 19 May Chelsea will host Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge in the final matchday of the Premier League. While the Blues are vying for a top-six finish, the Cherries find themselves in 11th position and could potentially climb higher with a successful performance.

Chelsea

After yet another disappointing season, Chelsea still have the opportunity to secure a spot in the Europa League or the Conference League. The Londoners currently sit in 6th place in the Premier League, 3 points behind the 5th-placed Tottenham and leading the 8th-placed Man United by 3 points. The hosts have suffered just one defeat in their last 14 matches, winning eight and drawing five. Mauricio Pochettino’s men have sequentially defeated Tottenham (2-0), West Ham (5-0), Nottingham Forest (3-2), and Brighton (2-1) this week. Cole Palmer opened the scoring with his 22nd goal of the season, and Christopher Nkunku doubled Chelsea's lead mid-second half; however, Danny Welbeck's late goal had little impact on the final outcome.

Chelsea are eager to return to Stamford Bridge, where they have won nine of their last 11 home matches in the Premier League, scoring 32 goals in the process. Defender Fofana, midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Lavia, as well as backup goalkeeper Sanchez, remain out due to physical issues. Moreover, right-back Reece James will be suspended this Sunday due to a red card. Youth talent Ugochukwu has recovered from a long-term injury and hopes to get some game time, while Nkunku will likely take his place in the final third. Palmer (22 goals and 10 assists) and Jackson (14 goals and 5 assists) will also be crucial for creating attacking opportunities, with Chalobah, Badiashile, and Cucurella forming the defensive trio.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth defied expectations this season by comfortably avoiding a relegation battle. Andoni Iraola’s men sit 11th in the Premier League table with a record-point tally of 48 for the club. However, the red and black have slowed down in recent weeks, suffering 4 defeats in their last 7 matches, with 2 wins and 1 draw. In May, the visitors lost to Arsenal (3-0) and Brentford (2-1); Dominic Solanke equalised late on, but Brentford’s Yoane Wissa scored the decisive goal in the 95th minute. A win on Sunday could see Bournemouth overtake Brighton, who face Man United at home, and finish in the top half for the first time since the 2016-17 season.

The visitors rank a commendable ninth in overall away points (21 in 18 away matches, with 26 goals scored and 37 conceded). Missing from Bournemouth’s line-up are defenders Fredericks and Mepham, as well as winger Sinisterra (2 goals and 2 assists). Additionally, key left-back Kerkez is suspended. Striker Solanke (19 goals) has been particularly impressive this season, and he is expected to lead the attacking line. Supporting him on the flanks will be Semenyo (8 goals and 2 assists) and Kluivert (7 goals), while Neto, Philip Billing, Tyler Adams, Marcus Tavernier, and Enes Unal are also eager for game time in the final match.

Head-to-Head

Bournemouth have boasted the best win record among all teams visiting Stamford Bridge in recent years, winning three times in their last six visits. The reverse fixture ended in a goalless draw.

Prediction for Chelsea vs Bournemouth

Bournemouth have the attributes to trouble the Blues, but Pochettino’s team have looked invincible at home in recent weeks and are motivated for a European spot. Chelsea have found excellent form in the final stretch of the season, with many previously injured players returning. My prediction is a home win with a -1 handicap.