Team analysis: Ipswich
Ipswich go into this match in disastrous form, with five defeats in their last six games. This string of poor results kept them in the relegation zone, where they will remain after the start of 2025. Their 1:0 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates showed obvious weaknesses in attack, as they only managed three shots during the 90 minutes, none of them on target.
Ipswich’s biggest problem is the home game. They are still winless at home this season, with just four points from nine matches. This trend makes them one of the rare teams in Premier League history to fail to win their first 10 home games – three out of four such teams ended up relegated.
Their last home performance, when they were beaten 4-0 by Newcastle, further highlighted their defensive problems. With eight of their next nine opponents fighting for the title or a place at the top of the table, Ipswich face an extremely difficult task in the coming period.
In terms of the squad, the return of captain Sam Morsi after suspension is a significant reinforcement in midfield. However, the absence of Luongo (questionable due to illness), Ogbene and Hirst through injury further complicates the situation for manager Kieran McKenna, who could return to a 4-2-3-1 formation after a failed experiment with a five-man backline against Arsenal.
Team analysis: Chelsea
Chelsea started the season above all expectations, but the momentum changed drastically during the festive season. After nine consecutive victories, including all competitive matches after the November international break, Enzo Maresca’s team has only won a point in the last two matches.
The defeat at home to Fulham on Boxing Day was particularly painful, as it was the first home defeat against their city rivals since 1979. Also, losing a game after taking the lead in the 82nd minute has not happened in almost a quarter of a century, indicating a drop in concentration and physical exhaustion at key moments.
However, Chelsea are still among the strongest away teams in the league – their only defeat away from home this season was against Liverpool. The tradition of ending the calendar year on a high level also favors the Stamford Bridge team. Since 2011, Chelsea have not lost their last game of the year, with eight wins and four draws.
In terms of playing staff, Maresca could use European stars like Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix to ensure a return to winning ways. The absence of key defenders, including Fofana, Badiashil and Rhys James, creates some uncertainty in the back line, but Lavia’s return to training could bring stability to the midfield.
Betting suggestion: Handicap Chelsea (-1)
Chelsea go into this match as heavy favorites against Ipswich, who are struggling with poor form, especially at home. Given the quality of the visitors and their excellent away results this season (apart from the loss to Liverpool), a win by two or more goals seems a realistic outcome.
Quota 1.96
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