Chelsea Aims To Build Momentum Against Brentford In Upcoming London Derby

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Enzo Maresca has urged Chelsea to maintain the momentum from their recent victory over Tottenham as they prepare for another London derby against Brentford on Sunday. Enzo Fernandez's second-half header secured a 1-0 win for Chelsea, dominating much of the match. This victory propelled Chelsea back into the Premier League's top four, despite wins from rivals Nottingham Forest, Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Aston Villa earlier in the week.

Maresca highlighted the importance of building on this success during Friday's press conference. He stated, "Every time you win, preparation for the next game is better." He emphasized that maintaining momentum from the Tottenham match is crucial, acknowledging that every upcoming game will be challenging. The tight schedule between matches presents a challenge for Chelsea, with Maresca noting the need to manage player fatigue effectively.

Brentford will pose a formidable challenge for Chelsea. Despite losing 2-1 at Newcastle recently, Brentford remains competitive in their pursuit of a top-half finish and potentially a spot in Europe. They currently sit 11th with 41 points, just three points behind Bournemouth in 10th place. Forward Kevin Schade expressed satisfaction with their season, stating that they are enjoying it and fighting for each other.

Brentford's style of play suits Schade well, as he thrives on quick plays with deep runners and crosses from the outside. "I'm quick and Brentford's system is to play quickly at the top," Schade said. This approach has contributed to their success this season.

Yoane Wissa has been instrumental for Brentford at home, contributing to 13 goals in his last 14 Premier League appearances (11 goals, two assists). He scored in last season's 2-2 draw against Chelsea in this fixture. For Chelsea, Cole Palmer ended a long wait for an assist by setting up Fernandez's winner against Spurs. This marked his first goal involvement since January and he aims to build on this performance.

Chelsea seeks to complete their first league double over Brentford since the 1946-47 season after winning the reverse fixture 2-1 in December. Despite being favourites, Chelsea faces challenges due to their poor away form. They have won only two of their last ten away games across all competitions (two draws, six losses), both victories occurring outside England.

Match Prediction and Opta Win Probability

Brentford has struggled at home recently, going seven Premier League games without a win at Gtech Community Stadium (two draws, five defeats). They have not kept a clean sheet at home this season and have gone 16 home league games without one since last campaign. However, Chelsea must overcome their own travel difficulties as they aim to end an eight-game winless streak away from home in England (two draws, six defeats).

The Opta Win Probability suggests Chelsea has a 43.8% chance of winning compared to Brentford's 31.3%, with a draw at 24.9%. Both teams will be eager to secure valuable points as they continue their respective campaigns.