Frank Christian
Chelsea is currently navigating the early phase of the season under new coach Enzo Maresca as they prepare for a challenging encounter against an undefeated Bournemouth in the Premier League.
After three matches, Chelsea’s results have been varied, earning four points with a loss to Manchester City, a decisive 6-2 victory against Wolves, and a 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace. Their inconsistent performance can be attributed to recent changes in the squad due to significant transfers.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, has remained unbeaten, drawing matches against Nottingham Forest and Newcastle while achieving a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Everton.
Football betting analyst Kyle Bonn provides expert betting insights on key matches weekly. Since the beginning of 2024, he has accurately predicted 55% of match outcomes using the 3-way moneyline, netting a profit of 56 units and pinpointing the exact scoreline in 30 out of 307 matches (10%).
Match Preview: Bournemouth vs. Chelsea
- Moneyline suggestion: Bournemouth (+230)
- Score prediction: Bournemouth 2-1 Chelsea
Last season, Bournemouth showed strong defensive capabilities at home, allowing just 24 expected goals at the Vitality Stadium compared to 34 on away games. They managed to secure a draw against Chelsea at home but lost to them in an away match.
With Chelsea playing away today, they may find themselves at a disadvantage.
| BetMGM (USA) |
|
| Bournemouth win | +230 |
| Draw | +290 |
| Chelsea win | +100 |
| Both teams to score |
Y: -225 N: +155 |
| Over / Under 3.5 goals |
O: +115 U: -160 |
| Chelsea -0.5 goals |
-110 |
| Bournemouth +0.5 goals |
-130 |
Match Details: Bournemouth vs. Chelsea
- Date: Saturday, September 14, 2024
- Kickoff Time: 8 p.m. local (3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT)
- Venue: Vitality Stadium (Bournemouth, England)
- Referee: Anthony Taylor, VAR: Peter Bankes
- Previous matchup: Chelsea 2-1 Bournemouth (May 19, 2024 | Premier League)
Best Bet: Bournemouth vs. Chelsea
- Recommendation: Bournemouth over 1.5 goals
- Odds: +120 (BetMGM)
Although Chelsea boasts a potent offensive lineup, they are still adapting to Maresca’s defensive strategies, having allowed two goals in both the season-opening matches against Manchester City and Wolves, and narrowly escaping a close call against Servette in the Europa Conference League.
The last meeting resulted in a 2-1 win for Chelsea, but they faced 22 shots and a troubling 2.22 xG against Bournemouth, demonstrating their defensive vulnerabilities. Bournemouth has struggled to capitalize previously but may finally find success in this matchup.
Player Prop Bet: Bournemouth vs. Chelsea
- Pick: Marcus Tavernier to score or assist a goal
- Odds: +170 (FanDuel)
In terms of influence on the pitch, Marcus Tavernier has been outstanding for Bournemouth this season, even if it doesn’t yet show on the scoreboard.
The 25-year-old has played a pivotal role in their offense, scoring against Newcastle and creating numerous high-quality chances. With 12 shots (ranking 5th in the Premier League) and 9 chances created (T-4th) across three matches, he ranks just behind Kevin de Bruyne in combined contributions.
His previous performances against Chelsea have been solid, garnering four shots and five created chances in the two games played, indicating he is close to making a significant impact.
