Action continues in the 2025/26 English Premier League season with an exciting Match day two clash in the London derby, as Chelsea visit the London Stadium in search of their first win of the season against West Ham United.
Ayomide Oguntimehin provides the detailed prediction and betting odds for the August 22nd clash.
West Ham United vs Chelsea Match Preview
West Ham United began their 2025/26 EPL season in disappointing fashion, losing 3-0 to newly-promoted Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. The Hammers had hoped for a fast start to the new season after a 14th-placed finish in the 2024/25 campaign, but goals from Eliezer Mayenda, Dan Ballard and Wilson Isidor condemned them to a shock defeat.
They face a tough schedule with matches against Nottingham Forest, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace to come after the Chelsea clash.
Chelsea, meanwhile, were held to a goalless draw by FA Cup holders Crystal Palace in their season opener at the Stamford Bridge. The Blues had gone into the new season in full promise after impressive showings in the past months. They won the UEFA Conference League before heading to the United States for the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, where they defeated UCL winners PSG to win the tournament.
The additions of Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Estevao Willian and Jamie Gittens had promised much hope and Enzo Maresca will expect more from his new additions as they seek a first win of the season ahead of a difficult run of fixtures.
West Ham United vs Chelsea Head to Head Record (Last five meetings)
- 03.02.2025 – Chelsea 2-1 West Ham United
- 21.09.2024 – West Ham United 0-3 Chelsea
- 05.05.2024 – Chelsea 5-0 West Ham United
- 20.08.2023 – West Ham United 3-1 Chelsea
- 11.02.2023 – West Ham United 1-1 Chelsea
Chelsea have dominated this matchup in recent outings, winning three of the last five including the last three. The Blues have only lost one of their last seven league matches against the Hammers and have scored in the last 11 matches between both sides.
Recent Form: West Ham United
West Ham United enjoyed remarkable improvement in preseason with victories over Everton, Bournemouth and Lille. They also ended the 2024/25 season with two victories from their last three matches, including a memorable 2-0 win at Old Trafford against Manchester United.
However, the Hammers have a poor home record in the league, with just two victories from their last 11 games at the London Stadium. They have also kept only two clean sheets in their last 12 matches in the league, highlighting the need for defensive improvements.
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Recent Form: Chelsea
Chelsea have hit peak form in recent outings, with the draw against Crystal Palace the only time they failed to win and score in their last eight matches. They have also won six of their last 10 matches in the league, suffering just a single defeat.
The Blues have only won two of their last five matches on the road in the league and also failed to score in three games during this run.
Player to Watch: Tosin Adarabioyo (Chelsea)
The Nigeria-eligible defender Tosin Adarabioyo missed the opening weekend draw against Crystal Palace with a minor injury, but is expected to make his first appearance of the season on Friday.
His return will provide a timely boost for the Blues, with his aerial threats and long through balls.
Best Betting Odds
Away (Chelsea) to Win or Draw – 1.21 (via 1xBet)
Prediction
Chelsea have won the last three meetings between these sides and they possess enough quality to secure a favorable result against their London rivals.
