Chelsea vs Crystal Palace Picks and Prediction – 1/4/2025

Crystal Palace (4-7-8) faces Chelsea (10-4-5) on January 4, at Selhurst Park in a Premier League clash. Crystal Palace is coming off a 2-1 win against Southampton, while Chelsea extended its winning streak with a 2-1 victory over Bournemouth. Both teams aim to build on recent performances and move up the table. Score a goal in betting with our Soccer picks.

Crystal Palace has struggled offensively, ranking 17th in goals scored with 20. Ismaila Sarr and Jean-Philippe Mateta lead the attack, each netting four goals this season, but the team’s lack of depth in scoring has limited consistency. Palace ranks 16th in assists with 15, highlighting the struggles in setting up opportunities. The midfield, led by Will Hughes with three assists, will need to control possession and create chances to compete against Chelsea’s high-powered offense.

Defensively, Crystal Palace has allowed 33 goals, exposing problems against stronger teams. Goalkeeper Dean Henderson has made 54 saves, ranking 12th in the league, but Palace’s defense often leaves him exposed. With only one red card this season, discipline hasn’t been an issue, but they will need to tighten up defensively to hold off Chelsea’s attacking threats.

Chelsea boasts the third-most goals in the league with 38, led by Nicolas Jackson’s nine goals and Cole Palmer’s 12 goals and six assists. Noni Madueke adds another dynamic layer with five goals, providing multiple scoring threats. Chelsea’s 30 assists, ranking 3rd, underline the creative ability of the club, making them one of the most balanced offenses in the league.

Defensively, Chelsea has conceded 24 goals, thanks in part to solid performances by goalkeeper Robert Sanchez with 65 saves. The backline, anchored by Marc Cucurella and Levi Colwill, has shown toughness, limiting quality scoring chances for opponents. Chelsea’s physical play, evidenced by 57 yellow cards, demonstrates an aggressive style that can disrupt Crystal Palace’s rhythm.

Chelsea’s superior offensive firepower and defensive stability give them the edge in this matchup. Crystal Palace has struggled to generate consistent scoring opportunities, and Chelsea’s ability to dominate possession should create ample chances to exploit defensive gaps. Expect Chelsea to control the tempo and come away with a comfortable victory. Final Score Prediction: Chelsea 3-1.