The upcoming FA Cup clash between Chelsea and Leicester City promises an exciting encounter as both teams look to progress in the competition. Here’s a breakdown of the latest team news, predicted lineups, and injuries for the match.
Team News and Injuries
Chelsea: The Blues have a series of absences to contend with. Key players like Reece James, Christopher Nkunku, Benoit Badiashile, and Wesley Fofana remain sidelined with injuries. Romeo Lavia and Lesley Ugochukwu are also unavailable. Enzo Fernandez is suspended for this fixture, while Marc Cucurella is expected to retain his place at left-back after a solid performance in the previous match against Newcastle. Ben Chilwell and Levi Colwill could return to the bench, with Carney Chukwuemeka available after recovering from injury
Leicester City: The Foxes have fewer injury concerns, with Dennis Praet and Ricardo Pereira both ruled out due to hamstring injuries. Despite these setbacks, Leicester boasts strong form as they currently lead the Championship table and are aiming for a return to the Premier League.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sánchez (GK); Gusto, Disasi, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Gallagher; Madueke, Mudryk, Sterling; Jackson. Mauricio Pochettino is likely to stick to a similar formation to the one that beat Newcastle, with Mykhailo Mudryk and Moisés Caicedo as pivotal players
Leicester City (4-3-3): Stolarczyk (GK); Choudhury, Coady, Vestergaard, Doyle; Winks, Raikhy, Akgün; Albrighton, Cannon, Marçal. Leicester’s manager Enzo Maresca is expected to field a balanced lineup as they aim to challenge the Blues at Stamford Bridge
Match Preview
Chelsea is coming off a strong 3-0 league win against Newcastle, showing signs of improving form after a turbulent season. Leicester, meanwhile, has been consistent in the Championship and is in excellent form. The Foxes defeated Bournemouth in the previous FA Cup round, while Chelsea edged past Leeds United. The clash will see Leicester’s attacking trio face Chelsea’s defensive adjustments, with players like Raheem Sterling and Nicolas Jackson looking to capitalize on their form
Prediction
Given their improving performances and home advantage, Chelsea is favored to win, though Leicester’s resilience might make it a close contest. A 3-1 victory for Chelsea seems likely as they aim to progress further in the FA Cup
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