The biggest matchup of the weekend arrives on Sunday morning when Tottenham play host to Chelsea.
The Spurs looked themselves in an opening 2-0 win at Newcastle. After finishing third and second in the past two years, respectively, the Spurs fancy themselves a title contender even if they are to play their home matches at Wembley, where they struggled last year.
On the other hand, Chelsea disappointed immensely in their opener, falling 3-2 to relegation contender Burnley at home. There’s a distinct possibility that Antonio Conte’s side could find themselves six points behind first-place Manchester United after two matches.
The fact that Tottenham have struggled at Wembley seems to have fueled some odds movement heading into the game as Spurs, who opened at +104, are now priced at +120, and Chelsea have moved to +240 after opening at +294. The odds for the draw have also shortened, moving from +262 to +254.
xG map for Newcastle – Tottenham. Spurs easily walked the match once up 11 v 10. pic.twitter.com/lIpuDBYRGa
— Caley Graphics (@Caley_graphics) August 13, 2017
The Spurs were a bit fortunate in their opener, as JonJoe Shelvey was sent off for a daft foul, but Mauricio Pochettino’s side looked like they picked up where they left off last year.
Chelsea seem to be a side in chaos and will be without the Cesc Fabregas and Gary Cahill after they both were sent off against Burnley. However, the Blues were handed a big boost when Eden Hazard and Tiemoue Bakayoko both appeared in a practice-friendly this week.
There are forces working against both teams here, but while Chelsea’s issues are tangible, the Spurs are only trying to overcome a cursed record at Wembley. Consider a small bet on the hosts in what should be a dramatic tilt.
photo: Kirby Lee, USA Today
