Chelsea FC v Brentford FC - Premier League - Source: Getty
Chelsea lock horns with Shamrock Rovers in the Conference League
Chelsea will welcome Shamrock Rovers to Stamford Bridge in their last league-phase match of the UEFA Conference League on Thursday. The Blues have a 100% record in the competition and are at the top of the standings. Rovers have enjoyed an unbeaten run in the competition, winning three of their five games.
The hosts head into the match on a 10-game unbeaten streak in all competitions. They extended their winning streak to seven games with a 2-1 home win over Brentford in the Premier League. Marc Cucurella scored in the first half while Nicolas Jackson added the second goal in the 80th minute.
The visitors are unbeaten in their last nine competitive games. They were last in action in the Conference League last week, recording a 3-0 home win over Borac. Johnny Kenny bagged a brace, and Neil Farrugia scored in the second half.
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The Blues have confirmed their berth in the round of 16 and will look to finish the league phase with a 100% record. The visitors are also assured of a place in the knockout round playoffs.
Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
The two teams will meet for the first time. The hosts meet a team from the Republic of Ireland for the first time. Rovers have met English teams four times, losing all of them.
Both teams have conceded four goals in five games in the Conference League. The hosts have outscored the visitors 21-11 in these games.
The hosts are on a seven-game winning streak in all competitions, scoring 21 goals while conceding seven times.
Shamrock Rovers have registered one win in their travels in the Conference League.
The Blues have scored 14 goals in three home games in the Conference League while keeping two clean sheets.
Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers Prediction
The Blues have won their last seven games and will look to keep that momentum going. They have scored at least three goals in four of their last five games. They are unbeaten at home in all competitions since a 2-0 loss to Manchester City in their Premier League campaign opener and are strong favorites.
Mykhailo Mudryk has been provisionally suspended after failing a drug test and will miss this match. Benoit Badiashile and Carney Chukwuemeka missed the league game against Brentford and are doubts for Enzo Maresca.
Rovers have enjoyed an unbeaten record in the Conference League, winning three of their last four games. They kept their first clean sheet of the campaign last week and will look to build on that form. Interestingly, their three goals against English teams have been scored in away games.
The Blues have enjoyed a great run of form and, considering their home advantage, they are expected to record a comfortable win.
Prediction: Chelsea 3-1 Shamrock Rovers
Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers Betting Tips
Tip 1: Result - Chelsea to win
Tip 2: Goals - Over/Under 2.5 Goals - Over 2.5 goals
Tip 3: At least one goal to be scored in the second half - Yes
Tip 4: First team to score - Chelsea