A Repeat Match with Renewed Focus
Brighton and Chelsea are set to face each other again in the Premier League this Friday, just a week after Brighton secured a 2-1 victory over the Blues in the FA Cup. The match, which took place last Saturday, saw Karou Mitoma score the decisive goal in the second half, propelling Brighton into the fifth round of the cup. Chelsea, despite an early own goal from Bert Verbruggen, were unable to mount a comeback, and now both teams must quickly put that result behind them.
The Stakes for Both Teams
This Friday’s Premier League encounter at the Amex Stadium holds considerable significance for both sides. For Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, the objective is clear: to consolidate their position in the top four and extend their lead over Manchester City, who are currently five points behind. A positive result would reinforce Chelsea’s standing and bolster their European ambitions. On the other hand, Brighton, currently in 10th place, is still within striking distance of a European spot, trailing seventh-placed Bournemouth by just six points. A win or even a draw could reignite their European hopes and inject a much-needed boost into their season.
Match Details and Viewing Information
When: The match is scheduled to kick off at 8pm GMT on Friday, 14 February.
Where: Brighton’s Amex Stadium.
How to Watch: Viewers in the United Kingdom can catch the game live on Sky Sports Main Event and Premier League. Coverage begins at 7pm. Those without a Sky subscription have the option to purchase a NOWTV Day Pass, allowing them to watch the match without committing to a long-term contract.
Team News and Potential Changes
Brighton: Manager Fabian Hurzeler is monitoring the fitness of Lewis Dunk, who was substituted in last week’s match due to a back issue. Pervis Estupinan and Mats Wiefer are close to returning to the squad, which would be a significant boost for Brighton. However, Solly March and Ferdi Kadioglu remain sidelined with injuries.
Chelsea: For Chelsea, striker Nicolas Jackson is out for the next six to eight weeks with a hamstring injury. Enzo Maresca is expected to make changes in defense, with Levi Colwill likely to return to the starting line-up. Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile continue to be sidelined, while Romeo Lavia is unlikely to play as the club assesses the extent of Marc Guiu’s injury.
Predicted Line-Ups
Brighton XI: Verbruggen; Veltman, van Hecke, Dunk, Lamptey; Baleba, Hinshelwood; Minteh, Rutter, Mitoma; Welbeck.
Chelsea XI: Sanchez; Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Enzo; Neto, Palmer, Sancho; Nkunku.
Match Prediction
As with last week’s confrontation, the match at the Amex is expected to be a closely contested affair. Brighton’s recent form and the home advantage give them a fighting chance, but Chelsea, likely to field a stronger side this time around, should at least secure a draw. A 2-2 draw seems a plausible outcome, reflecting the competitiveness and high stakes of this Premier League encounter.
