Game Week 21 Predictions: Both teams to score at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea hosts Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge in a crucial clash. Can the Blues bounce back, or will the Cherries continue their strong form?

Chelsea will hope to maintain the momentum they gained from the cup win at the weekend when they host high-flying Bournemouth. (Photo credit: Opta)

 Chelsea vs. Bournemouth

Stamford Bridge Stadium

8:30 pm

The FA Cup provided an outlet for Chelsea over the weekend as they halted a run of four games without a win with a comprehensive 5-0 success over League 1 side Morecambe on Saturday.

The Blues lost steam in December, struggling to find the right balance to get a result as they succumbed to home defeat against Fulham which was a sucker punch considering they conceded so late in the game while they also lost at bottom club Ipswich before settling for a point at Palace.

Bournemouth surprisingly has a better form than the Blues. The Cherries have not lost in a while, and in fact, they have won three of their last five, including a big one away at Manchester United, where they ran off with a 3-0 win.

This game is of huge significance to both sides. Chelsea is under pressure from Newcastle, City, and their opponents on Tuesday, and they cannot afford to lose any more points.

For Bournemouth, there’s a huge incentive on the table for them. They will go level on points with Chelsea if they beat the Blues on Tuesday night, and that would be something amazing for a club their size; however, breaking into the top 6 will be quite heartwarming for their fans.

Andoni Iraiola may be concerned about the visitors' depleted lineup. Despite Evanilson's impressive performance up front, his injury may prevent him from participating in this match. Enes Unal has done his ACL and is out for the rest of the season, while Luis Sinisterra, Alex Scott, Marcos Senesi, and Julian Araujo are all unavailable.

Cole Palmer continues to be the primary player in the Chelsea team, which presents its own set of challenges. When he’s not firing, the team isn’t firing. Nicolas Jackson has reverted to his previous ways and is struggling to find solutions in front of goal. Will they dive into the market for a striker this winter?

Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile have confirmed their season-long absences. With Tosin Adarabioyo scoring twice in the cup win, he will start against Bournemouth to keep the confidence growing; it would be a game the neutrals will enjoy.

Verdict: Both teams to score.