Chelsea welcome Everton to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, April 26th, 2025, in a lunchtime Premier League clash that feels more like a test of character than a top-four showdown. With kick-off set for 12:30pm (UK time), all eyes will be on how both sides respond after turbulent weeks.
đ” Chelsea Preview: Confidence Fragile, Fans Restless
The Blues have endured a stop-start campaign under Enzo Maresca, and since Christmas, form has nosedived. A frustrating goalless draw at Goodison Park in December kickstarted their decline, and now they meet Everton again with even more at stake. Chelsea sit outside the Champions League places, and fan patience is wearing thin.
Last weekendâs dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Fulham at Craven Cottage offered a glimmer of hope. Youngster Tyrique George and winger Pedro Neto rescued the points late on, but the overall performance did little to quieten growing discontent over Marescaâs tactical approach.
Injury concerns continue to mount. Malo Gusto, Wesley Fofana, and Noah Guiu remain sidelined, while Mykhailo Mudryk is absent due to disciplinary reasons. The predicted XI sees Cole Palmer pulling the creative strings behind Nicolas Jackson, with Reece James and Levi Colwill anchoring the defence.
Everton Preview: Inconsistent But Dangerous
David Moyes has brought much-needed grit and structure to Everton since returning to Merseyside. The Toffees are hovering safely in mid-table and preparing for a new era at Bramley-Moore Dock next season. But despite their progress, results have been inconsistentâjust one win in their last eight league matches.
A 2-0 home defeat to Manchester City last weekend exposed familiar frailties. Everton were solid for much of the game but crumbled late on. Moyes will demand a reaction, especially against a vulnerable Chelsea side.
The visitors are without defensive rock James Tarkowski, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Arnaut Danjuma, and Lindstrom are also unavailable. Expect Everton to line up in their typical 4-2-3-1 with Beto leading the line and Abdoulaye Doucoure offering midfield dynamism.
Tactical Insight: A Midfield Battle Awaits
This game could hinge on the midfield duel. Chelseaâs double pivot of Fernandez and Caicedo will need to dominate possession and resist Evertonâs physical pressing. Everton, meanwhile, will look to hit on the break, exploiting Chelseaâs high defensive line.
The Blues have struggled to break down low blocks this season, and Moyes will likely instruct his side to sit deep and frustrate before springing quick counters via Jack Harrison and Iliman Ndiaye.
đ Chelsea vs Everton Prediction & Betting Tip
Given Chelseaâs recent unpredictability and Evertonâs resilience, this one could go either way. Stamford Bridge has not been the fortress it once was, and the visitors will fancy their chances of grinding something out.
Prediction: 1-1 Draw
đĄ Tip: Everton Double Chance (Win or Draw) â Excellent value considering Chelseaâs inconsistent home form and Evertonâs knack for frustrating bigger sides.
