Leeds United’s impressive unbeaten start to the new season will be put to the test when they play hosts to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge with the Blues coming into this one off the back of an intense London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
If any side has surprised early on in the Premier League this season, it’s Leeds. Many people backed them to go down, and although a relegation fight could still happen, the Whites are now on a two-game unbeaten run at the start of the new season, and Jesse Marsch looks to be getting his side ticking this time around.
One of our own! 🔵 pic.twitter.com/4CJVtwvCB3— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 19, 2022
One of our own! 🔵 pic.twitter.com/4CJVtwvCB3
Similarly to the relegation fears, Marsch was heavily favoured to be the first manager sacked for this new season, but after impressive results early on, attention has turned elsewhere.
Leeds kicked things off with a win against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Elland Road, as Rodrigo scored a smart goal, while Brendan Aaronson looked like he got a debut goal before it was turned into an own goal by the goals panel.
Nevertheless, Leeds were excellent that day in attack and defence, and they head into this game with Elland Road booming once again.
The Whites were unlucky not to get all three points last time out too, as they headed on the road to St Mary’s. Rodrigo was the difference once again for the Yorkshire side, as his two goals made it 2-0 on the 60th minute with the Spainard now making it three in two.
Two goals from Southampton forced a draw, however, but after registering five shots on target and seeing 59% of the ball, Marsch will be pleased with his side's efforts.
As for Chelsea, their narrow 1-0 win against Everton at Goodison Park barely got fans excited for the new season, and a draw with Spurs last weekend only adds the pressure onto the shoulders of Thomas Tuchel.
Kalidou Koulibaly scored a thunderous volley on his Stamford Bridge debut that day, before Reece James scored with 13 minutes to go as it looked like he won the game for his side.
However, a Harry Kane equaliser from a corner sealed a draw for the away side, as Chelsea dominated large parts of the game.
Tuchel’s men were the better team in both games, but after such a late goal for Spurs, they are on four points from two games and need to show signs of improving if they are to argue their case at a top four finish.
Forebet predicts Chelsea could struggle again here with Leeds looking solid right now. Forebet expects a draw in this one and for the game to see under 2.5 goals.