Chelsea Faces Bournemouth in Crucial Premier League Clash

LONDON, England — Chelsea will host AFC Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in a pivotal Premier League match as both teams vie for a top-four finish. The Blues, coming off a dominant 5-0 FA Cup victory over Morecambe, aim to regain momentum in the league, while Bournemouth seeks to solidify their surprising seventh-place standing.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has named a strong lineup, featuring young defender Josh Acheampong at center back and Moisés Caicedo at right-back. Reece James and Romeo Lavia, who recently returned from injury, are on the bench, while Noni Madueke is back in the squad after recovering from illness. Bournemouth, led by Andoni Iraola, will rely on their high-pressing style, which has been key to their success this season.

‘Bournemouth are a very good team with a very good manager,’ Maresca said in his pre-match press conference. ‘They press with real intensity, which makes it difficult for teams. That’s why they are doing well.’

The Cherries, currently just three points behind Chelsea, have defied expectations this season, with Iraola’s tactics earning praise. Maresca acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, ‘It will be a tough game. They are direct, physically strong, and quick.’

Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. GMT, with the match broadcast on TNT Sports 3 in the UK and available for streaming on discovery+. Chelsea fans will hope their team can build on Saturday’s FA Cup win and secure crucial points in the race for European qualification.