Arsenal v Chelsea – Match Preview and Betting Tip
Introduction
This London derby will be the first meeting of Mourinho and Wenger since the Portugese returned to England. Always a hard fought affair, this match is likely to be no different, though both teams are likely to make many changes from the teams which lined up at the weekend. Arsenal have traditionally treated this competition as an opportunity to blood young players and give squad players a run out, while Chelsea under Mourinho have taken it somewhat more seriously. Thus, it will be interesting to see how the two teams line-up when this one gets underway.
Winner
All three options in this market are pretty even in terms of chances according to the bookmakers, with virtually every bookmaker pricing an Arsenal and Chelsea win almost identically. The draw might also be an attractive proposition for this market, given that it is the most competitively priced option of the three. But I’m going to tip Chelsea to win this one. I think Mourinho will play the stronger team, and they have an immensely strong squad which ensures that they can put a great eleven out no matter how many players Mourinho rests.
My tip: Chelsea win
Best odds: 7/4 with BetVictor
Correct Score
This will probably me more open than the usual fixture between these two teams, and as Chelsea are the away side, I think it will be a narrow victory.
My tip: Arsenal 1 – 2 Chelsea
Best odds: 21/2 with BetVictor
Under / Over 2.5 Goals
My tip: Over 2.5 goals
Best odds: 4/5 with Ladbrokes
Winning Margin
My tip: Chelsea to win by 1 goal
Best odds: 4/1 with BetVictor
First Goalscorer
It’s extremely difficult to call this market, as neither line-up is certain by any means, and Mourinho loves to rotate his squad at the best of times. Thus, I’m tipping a player who has shown an eye for goal this season in the small amount of time that he has spent on the pitch, and whom I believe is likely to play from the start.
My tip: Willian
Best odds: 11/1 with William Hill
