Stoke vs Chelsea Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews

Stoke managed to show a lot of defensive steel in their last match as they held Manchester City off for the full 90 minutes to earn a point from a goalless draw. This excellent result makes it two wins, three draws, and two defeats in their last seven outings in the Premier League.

This recent run has allowed them to break into the top half of the Premier League table, despite their absolutely shocking start to the campaign. They also have a relatively favourable run in going to the end of the season, so they have a chance to progress even further up the table if they can start to win games consistently.

This is not one of those favourable games though. Chelsea progressed in the FA Cup on Monday as they knocked current holders Manchester United out, keeping them well on track for the double this season.

Every week that passes increases the chances of Chelsea winning the league. They are now ten points clear of 2nd placed Spurs, who have now lost Harry Kane to injury, and have just 11 games left to play. Eight wins from these 11 games would seal the title for them.

That figure certainly looks achievable for Chelsea. They have won a huge 19 of their last 22 matches in all competitions, and in the Premier League they have only lost once since Antonio Conte switched to a back three back in September.

A lot of these victories have been comfortable to say the least for them, and whilst they are a little more conservative on the road, they rarely look threatened in their pursuit of the three points. They have won four of their last 11 away days by more than a single goal margin, and that includes trips to Southampton, Manchester City, Spurs, Leicester, and Liverpool.

Diego Costa is the main driving force behind Chelsea’s success when they’re away from home. The more conservative approach somewhat limits Eden Hazard, but Costa remains a huge threat. He has scored nine of his 17 league goals away from home this season, so backing him to score anytime at 5/6 looks the best choice for our goalscorer predictions.

As far as the overall result goes I can’t look beyond a Chelsea win, and considering Stoke have lost five of their six matches against the top five by more than a single goal, odds of 2.060 for a Chelsea -1.0 Asian Handicap win look good value for money. I’m also backing a 2-0 correct score predictions at 13/2.