Chelsea is set to face Wolverhampton in an upcoming Premier League match. The clash promises to be significant for both teams as they navigate their current form and historical rivalries.
Chelsea vs. Wolverhampton: A Premier League Preview
Team Performance and Historical Context
In their recent history, Chelsea has had mixed results against Wolverhampton. After losing three consecutive matches between April 2023 and February 2024, Chelsea bounced back last season, winning both encounters with an aggregate score of 9-3. Notably, Wolverhampton has struggled when playing away against Chelsea, securing only one victory in their last 11 Premier League away games against them.
- However, Wolves did manage a 4-2 win at Chelsea in February 2024.
- Historically, Chelsea has scored five or more goals in four separate Premier League matches against Wolverhampton.
- The most recent high-scoring match was a 6-2 victory at Molineux.
Current Season Statistics
This season, Wolverhampton has faced challenges, collecting only two points from ten Premier League games with two draws and eight losses. Historically, teams that have started the season in such poor form with two or fewer points have faced relegation. Examples from previous seasons include:
- Manchester City (1995-96): 2 points
- Sunderland (2016-17): 2 points
- Sheffield United (2020-21 and 2023-24): 1 point
- Norwich City (2021-22): 2 points
In stark contrast, Chelsea has spent only 14.4% of their matches in a losing position this season, the second-lowest in the league. On the other hand, Wolverhampton has spent a staggering 59.1% of their games trailing, the highest in the Premier League.
Recent Form and Player Highlights
Wolverhampton’s recent run has been disappointing, going winless in the last 14 Premier League fixtures, including 11 losses. Their last victory came after a streak of six consecutive wins. The longest poor run without winning for Wolves since their last relegation occurred between January and August 1970.
In terms of player statistics, João Gomes has been noted for his aggressive gameplay. This season, he has committed the third-most fouls in the division with 21. Since his debut in February 2023, he leads in both fouls committed (174) and yellow cards (28).
For Chelsea, João Pedro has proven essential, contributing to six goals in his last nine Premier League games. With his next appearance, he will reach 100 matches in the competition, becoming the 31st Brazilian to achieve this milestone.
Defensive Statistics
Defensively, Chelsea has faced 6.1 expected goals (xG) from set pieces, the highest in the league. In a contrasting defensive stance, they have faced only 62 open play shots this season, with only Arsenal conceding fewer at 53. On the other end, Wolverhampton has committed 134 fouls, trailing only Fulham in total fouls this season.
As Chelsea prepares for this pivotal match against Wolverhampton, both clubs will be eager to secure points to improve their standings in the competitive landscape of the Premier League.
