The West London derby is set to ignite Stamford Bridge as Chelsea host Fulham in what promises to be an intriguing Premier League clash. Both teams come into this match with different stories to tell from the start of the season, but with the same goal: to secure a crucial victory and build momentum.
Head-to-Head
Historically, this is a fixture that has heavily favored Chelsea. In their 36 Premier League encounters, Chelsea have lost only three times to Fulham. While Fulham did secure a rare 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge in December 2024, they have never won consecutive away games at Chelsea’s home ground. The last meeting between the two in April 2025 saw Chelsea win 2-1 at Craven Cottage. The Blues have a dominant record, but the last few meetings show a more competitive edge from Fulham, making this a true derby.
How They Fare in Their Last Matches
Chelsea:
The Blues had a stuttering start to their campaign with a disappointing goalless draw at home against Crystal Palace. The performance lacked the attacking flair and cutting edge expected. However, they roared back to life in their last outing, a spectacular 5-1 thrashing of West Ham United. This result was a statement of intent, showcasing their attacking potential and ability to score in bunches. The key to this victory was a collective effort, with goals from a number of players.
Fulham:
Fulham, meanwhile, have had a resilient start, securing two hard-fought draws in their opening fixtures against Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United. Both games saw them come from behind to snatch a point, demonstrating a never-say-die attitude. They also picked up a 2-0 win over Bristol City in the Carabao Cup, showing a strong response after their league fixtures. Their ability to battle back from adversity will be a key factor in this match.
Manager’s Tactics
Enzo Maresca (Chelsea):
Under Enzo Maresca, Chelsea is expected to play a possession-based, attacking style of football. His tactical blueprint focuses on building from the back and creating numerical advantages to progress the ball up the field. We can expect to see the full-backs heavily involved in the attack, stretching the opposition and creating space for the forwards to exploit. The 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation is likely, with a high press to win the ball back quickly and a mid-block to force opponents out wide when defending. The goal is to control the game and create chances through intricate passing and fluid movement.
Marco Silva (Fulham):
Marco Silva has implemented a positive and attacking philosophy at Fulham. He typically sets his team up in a flexible 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3. His teams are known for their fluid wide rotations and overloads, with the full-backs, wingers, and midfielders interchanging positions to draw out defenders and open up space. Fulham will likely employ a controlled pressing approach, looking to disrupt Chelsea’s build-up play and launch quick, vertical counter-attacks. Their defensive organization has been a strength, and they will be looking to remain compact and disciplined to frustrate the home side.
Players to Watch
Chelsea:
- Joao Pedro: The summer signing has hit the ground running, with four goals and two assists in his last four games across all competitions. His hot streak makes him the most dangerous player on the pitch and a key threat to Fulham’s defense.
- Enzo Fernández & Moisés Caicedo: This midfield duo is the engine room of the Chelsea team. Their ability to control the tempo, break up play, and distribute the ball will be crucial in Maresca’s system.
- Estevão Willian: The young winger made an impressive full debut against West Ham, contributing a goal and an assist. He offers pace and directness, and with Cole Palmer’s fitness in doubt, he could be a vital attacking outlet.
Fulham:
- Alex Iwobi: He has been a creative force for Fulham, providing the assist for their late equalizer against Manchester United. His ability to link midfield and attack will be essential for Fulham’s offensive aspirations.
- Rodrigo Muniz: The forward has a knack for scoring crucial goals, as he demonstrated in their last victory against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. He will be looking to get on the end of any chances Fulham creates.
- Calvin Bassey: A key figure in Fulham’s defense, his pace and comfort on the ball will be tested against Chelsea’s dynamic attack. His performance will be crucial to keeping the Blues’ forwards at bay.
Probable Lineups
Chelsea (4-2-3-1):
Sánchez; James, Chalobah, Adarabioyo, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernández; Estevão, Neto, Willian; João Pedro.
(Note: Cole Palmer is a doubt with a groin issue, so Estevão is likely to start.)
Fulham (4-2-3-1):
Leno; Castagne, Bassey, Andersen, Robinson; Lukić, Berge; Iwobi, King, Sessegnon; Muniz.
Match Prediction
This is a classic London derby with a lot on the line. Chelsea’s recent 5-1 victory against West Ham will give them immense confidence, and their attack looks potent. However, Fulham have shown they are a resilient and hard-working side who will not give up easily. They’ve already proven they can cause problems for top teams.
Chelsea’s home form is also a significant factor, as they are currently unbeaten in their last 11 Premier League matches at Stamford Bridge. While Fulham will put up a strong fight, Chelsea’s attacking firepower and the momentum they gained from their last match should be enough to secure the win. Fulham will likely get on the scoresheet, but Chelsea’s quality in the final third will be the deciding factor.
Score Prediction: Chelsea 3 – 1 Fulham
