Match preview

Chelsea return to action after a heartbreaking FA Cup final defeat to Manchester City, where a narrow 1-0 loss at Wembley extended their recent run of disappointment in major finals. Within 24 hours of that setback, the club confirmed the appointment of Bundesliga “Invincible” Alonso on a four-year deal, signalling the start of a new era despite the immediate pain of defeat.

Calum McFarlane’s side were competitive against City, but ultimately lacked a cutting edge, with their best moment of attacking inspiration coming from Antoine Semenyo’s clever backheel. It was not enough to prevent another trophy slipping away, leaving Chelsea once again reflecting on missed opportunities.

That loss also ended one potential route into Europe. While their top-five hopes in the Premier League are already mathematically over, Chelsea are still clinging to a slim chance of Champions League qualification through alternative scenarios, depending on results elsewhere in the league and cup competitions.

A 1-1 draw away at Liverpool last weekend at least stopped a damaging six-game league losing streak, but the pressure remains intense. Chelsea are now on the brink of unwanted history, as another defeat would mean five consecutive home losses in the league for the first time ever.

Tottenham arrive with renewed confidence after a 1-1 draw with Leeds, a result that felt like a missed opportunity but still left their survival hopes in their own hands. They are currently two points clear of West Ham with a game in hand, meaning victory in this fixture would secure their Premier League status for next season.

Roberto De Zerbi’s side have also shown strong recent form, taking two wins and two draws from their last four matches, and their away record has been one of their biggest strengths this season — with only Arsenal and Manchester City collecting more away victories.

Chelsea, however, have had Tottenham’s number in recent meetings. The Blues have won the last five league encounters, including a 1-0 victory in this exact fixture last season and another win at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium earlier in the campaign. Spurs have not won at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League since 2018.

Chelsea possible starting lineup:

Sanchez; Fofana, Colwill, Hato; Gusto, Caicedo, Fernandez, Cucurella; Palmer, Neto; Delap

Tottenham Hotspur possible starting lineup:

Kinsky; Porro, Danso, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bentancur, Palhinha; Kolo Muani, Gallagher, Tel; Richarlison

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