Premier League: Can Chelsea hold their own against Guardiola’s machine?

Inna Kramarchuk
Inna Kramarchuk Journalist
Premier League: Can Chelsea hold their own against Guardiola’s machine?
Photo: EPA/UPG
Sunday, 12 April, promises to be a heated day: from the London derbies to the clash of the titans at Stamford Bridge. BBC Sport football expert Chris Sutton has shared his predictions for the fixtures in Matchday 31

This is reported by Konkurent Football

Main match: Chelsea v Manchester City (18:30)

Although Sutton’s detailed analysis focuses on the afternoon matches, his verdict on the day’s main fixture is disappointing for the Londoners. The expert is tipping a narrow victory for Guardiola’s side.

  • Sutton’s prediction: 1–2

 Predictions for the afternoon matches (16:00)

1. Sunderland v Tottenham

The main intrigue is Roberto De Zerbi’s debut at the helm of the Spurs. Sutton is sceptical: the Italian needs time, and Sunderland are on the up, especially after their victory over Newcastle. If Tottenham start playing De Zerbi’s overly open style of football without proper preparation, they are in for a disappointment.

  • Sutton’s prediction: 1-0

  • Odds: Home Win — 2.67 | Draw — 3.47 | Away Win — 2.72

2. Crystal Palace – Newcastle

Oliver Glasner may sacrifice this match for the sake of the Conference League, where Fiorentina await the Eagles. However, Eddie Howe’s Newcastle are not exactly impressing with their consistency at the moment either, especially away from home. Sutton predicts a draw.

  • Sutton’s prediction: 1:1

  • Odds: Home Win — 2.86 | Draw — 3.49 | Away Win — 2.54

3. Nottingham Forest – Aston Villa

A battle for survival versus a battle for the Champions League. Chris Wood has returned to the Forest side, but he is not yet in top form. Villa, meanwhile, are looking to pull away from Chelsea in the race for the top four. Sutton believes both teams expended too much energy in their European fixtures on Thursday.

  • Sutton’s prediction: 1-1

  • Odds: Home Win — 2.78 | Draw — 3.35 | Away Win — 2.69

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