Game Week 34 Predictions: Chelsea to beat Everton at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea face must-win clash vs Everton to boost top-five hopes, while Everton aim to spoil the party with resilient defence at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea must beat Everton, there are no two ways about it or they would kiss their Champions League dreams goodbye. (Photo credit: GOAL)

 Chelsea vs Everton

12:30pm

Stamford Bridge Stadium

Chelsea understands that it’s make or mar for them against Everton; they saw Matheus Nunes’ strike against Aston Villa, which handed Manchester City a huge advantage. The Blues must beat Everton to put them in a good spot for a top-five finish.

Let’s face it, Chelsea has had an underwhelming season, one you’d be tempted to call a failed one, especially if they manage to fluff things in the Europa Conference League; however, they must keep things together to finish in the top five.

Everton has had a good season, especially after David Moyes returned. The former Manchester United and West Ham manager has steered the Toffees out of the relegation zone and made them a tough team to face.

It’s not going to be an easy trip to Stamford Bridge considering what the Blues need to finish the season greatly, but Everton would hope to rain on Chelsea’s party. The Toffees have nothing to lose, and that makes it harder for Chelsea.

It’s intense in the race for Champions League qualification. Chelsea’s situation is even precarious; as they currently sit in 6th, they must win here to close the gap on the front runners, as there are only three slots to be filled with five teams fighting.

Don’t expect favours from Everton; trust them to compete for every ball, fight for every duel and defend with their lives. Jordan Pickford is in the running for the Premier League Golden Glove award; he would hope to shut the Blues out as best as he can.

Chelsea have the materials to win this game; the quality in their ranks should get the job done. However, they have failed to click, with the duo of Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson struggling to find form when it matters the most.

What decision would Enzo Maresca make in terms of team selection? He does have a date in midweek against Djurgården in the Europa Conference League; however, no one would understand with him if he prioritises the Europa League over a top-five finish in the league.

Watch out for Pedro Neto and Jadon Sancho; there’s a case for Noni Madueke, but fans are tired of seeing Christopher Nkunku. Watch out for Illian Ndiaye and Armando Broja for the visitors; however, the key battle would be between Chelsea’s attack and Everton’s defence.

Verdict: Chelsea must beat Everton.