In this article, we are going to give a preview, prediction and betting tips for the League Cup semi-final tie between Chelsea and Tottenham.
It’s a London derby, the stakes are high and more so, it’s a semi-final meaning a trophy is at stake. Either side knows that only three games stand in their way of a trophy and would do whatever it takes to win.
Chelsea Home Advantage Key
While the hosts seem to be in shaky form of late, they are still unbeaten in eight games going into this fixture (W3 D5). Perhaps the most interesting fact to note here is the Blues have only lost once at Stamford Bridge throughout the season.
Chelsea are eight-time winners of the competition, however, they haven’t won it since 2014/2015.
Despite playing at home and having an advantage, it is necessary to point out that three of their last six League Cup games played at home ended in a draw and needed a penalty shootout to settle affairs.
Although, this fixture is a double-legged tie so it cannot go to penalties even if it ends with the spoils shared. Teams advance on aggregate after the two legs.
Another interesting stat is that Chelsea have had to come back from a losing position to avoid defeat in three of their last five home games. This could hint that there would be more than one goal in the game.
Conte Could Be Key In Fixture
On the other hand, Tottenham have more of the momentum going into the fixture. They seem like a club reborn ever since Antonio Conte was hired as their manager.
Indeed, since Conte took over at the club, he is the first manager since the Premier League was introduced to go unbeaten across their opening eight league games (W5, D3).
It is with this confidence that Tottenham face London rivals, Chelsea, in what promises to be an interesting fixture.
A lot is at stake here for Spurs as this could be their best opportunity to finally win a trophy for the first time since 2007/08. It will however be a big ask as the only side to win at the Bridge this season has been Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.
The stats don’t back Tottenham either as they have lost two cup semi-finals against Chelsea in the last five years.
VERDICT
Our prediction is a Chelsea win or draw against Tottenham.
Which team are you backing to win? What are your predictions? Let us know in the comments section.
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