Chelsea travel to Anfield to take on league leaders Liverpool in the most deciding game of the season, on Sunday the 27th. The Reds lead the Blues by five points and sit comfortably in 1st place. If Liverpool can scrape away with anything but a loss, the title will be very much in control. If Chelsea can formulate a win, the title race still is not in their hands. All eyes will be on this game.
Chelsea, one could argue, are currently in their worst form of the entire season. Not only have Chelsea lost three of their last six games in the Premier League, but those three losses were against teams from the bottom half of the table. This recent form has definitely shown weaknesses in the squad.
Liverpool have surprised everyone this season with impeccable form and consistency. The Reds have won their past six games and have exhibited resilience that should be seen in champions. Interestingly enough, Liverpool’s last defeat in the Premier League came against Chelsea in late December at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho told the media that he will be submitting a weakened squad to contend against Liverpool in hopes of resting his more significant players for the upcoming Champions League game against Atlético Madrid. It seems as if the Chelsea boss has accepted defeat in the Premier League.
Brendan Rodgers, unlike Mourinho, does not have any other competition to worry about, so he will put out his best squad possible. His second year in charge of the club could yield one of the most victorious seasons in the club’s history.
The key player for Chelsea this game will be Frank Lampard. The long time Chelsea legend will need to show complete composure in the midfield and control this game. He will be facing rival, counterpart, and Liverpool’s key player, Steven Gerrard. England fans in general relish this matchup and this match will surely force the best out of both.
Prediction
Chelsea will be deploying a weaker side in preparation for next week’s game, while Liverpool will be going all out to secure their long sought title. I predict a 2-1 win to Liverpool. The Reds have shown so much conviction and attacking strength that it is hard not imagining a Liverpool win. The Blues will not let this game slip away and will put up a strong fight. No matter what the final result, this game will decide the title winners one way or another. Strap yourself in and enjoy the rush and pinnacle of what the Premier League is all about.
Television: The match will be televised on NBC Sports Network (6:05 AM Pacific).
