Chelsea vs Fulham: Premier League London Derby Preview (August 30, 2025)
Match Overview
Match: Chelsea vs Fulham
Competition: Premier League
Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
Kick-off Time: 12:30 BST / 07:30 ET
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London
The Premier League season kicks into high gear with a classic West London derby as Chelsea host rivals Fulham at Stamford Bridge. After a dramatic start to the season for both sides, this fixture is poised to be a tactical battle with pride and crucial points at stake.
How to Watch
Fans around the world will have several options to tune into the action live. Here's a breakdown of where you can catch the game:
- UK: The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Streaming is available via the Discovery+ app.
- USA: Viewers can watch the game on the USA Network (English) or Universo (Spanish). Streaming options include fuboTV, Peacock, and the NBC Sports App.
Predicted Lineups
Both managers, Enzo Maresca and Marco Silva, face key decisions regarding their starting elevens. Chelsea will be sweating on the fitness of a few key players, while Fulham will look to build on their resilient start to the campaign.
Chelsea Predicted Lineup & Formation
Chelsea's recent 5-1 thrashing of West Ham demonstrated their attacking prowess, even without their star player Cole Palmer, who remains a doubt with a groin injury. Enzo Maresca is expected to stick to his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, which has shown great fluidity in attack. Summer signings João Pedro and Estêvão have seamlessly integrated into the forward line, providing a dynamic threat.
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Goalkeeper: Sánchez
- Defenders: James, Chalobah, Adarabioyo, Cucurella
- Midfielders: Caicedo, Enzo Fernández
- Attacking Midfielders: Estêvão, Neto, João Pedro
- Striker: Delap
Key Absentees: Levi Colwill (ACL), Benoît Badiashile (Groin), Romeo Lavia (Doubtful).
Fulham Predicted Lineup & Formation
Fulham have proven to be a tough nut to crack this season, securing two valuable draws against Brighton and Manchester United. Marco Silva's side is built on defensive solidity and a threat on the counter-attack. The return of Antonee Robinson is a massive boost, offering pace and creativity down the left flank.
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Goalkeeper: Leno
- Defenders: Tete, Bassey, Andersen, Robinson
- Midfielders: Lukić, Berge
- Attacking Midfielders: Wilson, King, Iwobi
- Striker: Muniz
Key Absentees: None reported.
Match Preview & Tactical Analysis
This match pits Chelsea's fluid, possession-based attack against Fulham's disciplined and resilient defense. Chelsea, under Maresca, will look to dominate the ball, with Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo pulling the strings from midfield. The key for them will be to break down a compact Fulham backline. The runs from the wide players like Neto and Estêvão will be crucial in stretching the defense, creating space for João Pedro to exploit in the central areas.
For Fulham, the strategy will be clear: remain organized, frustrate the opposition, and strike on the counter. The midfield battle between Chelsea's Enzo and Fulham's Berge will be a defining factor. If Fulham can win the ball in dangerous areas, players like Muniz and Iwobi have the quality to make Chelsea pay. The Cottagers have shown a knack for dramatic late goals, and their fighting spirit will be on full display.
Recent Head-to-Head
Historically, Chelsea have a dominant record in this fixture. However, last season's results show the rivalry is as competitive as ever, with both sides winning away from home. Fulham's last victory at Stamford Bridge came in December of last year, a result that will give them confidence heading into this clash.
| Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|
| April 20, 2025 | Premier League | Fulham 1 - 2 Chelsea |
| December 26, 2024 | Premier League | Chelsea 1 - 2 Fulham |
| January 13, 2024 | Premier League | Chelsea 1 - 0 Fulham |
| October 2, 2023 | Premier League | Fulham 0 - 2 Chelsea |
| February 3, 2023 | Premier League | Chelsea 0 - 0 Fulham |
Prediction
While Fulham's defensive grit and counter-attacking threat make them a difficult opponent, Chelsea's attacking firepower, even without a potentially absent Cole Palmer, is a significant factor. Their recent 5-1 win showcased a team that is gelling under Enzo Maresca. We expect a tight contest, but Chelsea's home advantage and superior depth should see them through.
Final Score Prediction: Chelsea 2 - 1 Fulham