If there is a good time for Bournemouth to play Chelsea, then it is now.
Enzo Maresca’s side are currently in a bad run of form. Their 2-1 loss to Aston Villa last weekend means they have now won just once in their last six Premier League games.
To make matters worse heading into the Bournemouth fixture, the Cherries’ best player, Antoine Semenyo, is likely to be fired up.
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This could be Semenyo’s final game for Bournemouth, with the winger closing in on a move to Manchester City.
Chelsea defender Reece James and Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo chasing after the ball
Photo by Robin Jones – AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images
Bournemouth have scored all of their Premier League goals at Stamford Bridge in the second half
Maresca will be worried and will have to be extra cautious in the second half, as that is when Bournemouth have done all of their damage against Chelsea.
As per BBC Sport, the eight Premier League goals that Bournemouth have managed to score at Stamford Bridge have all come in the second half of games.
It means that Chelsea are going to have to be even more alert than usual during that stage of the match.
Chelsea’s predicted XI for Bournemouth clash 👀
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Chelsea's predicted XI for Bournemouth
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Against Villa, the Blues went 1-0 up in the first half but could not extend their lead despite all of their dominance, allowing their opponents to turn things around.
Looking at the above statistic, the same could happen again if Maresca’s men only have a one-goal lead by the time the second half starts.
Cole Palmer of Chelsea controls the ball during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Chelsea
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Second half could define whole 90 minutes
Bournemouth will also have to be wary of what Chelsea can do in the second 45 minutes of Tuesday night’s game. Andoni Iraola has already spoken about Chelsea’s bench and the attackers they can bring on.
In his pre-match press conference, he said: “They have so many players and, with the subs, they can keep the level for 90 minutes. Normally they change the wingers and number nine but the level is still top, so they can keep the energy for the whole game.”
All things considered, then, Chelsea versus Bournemouth will probably be decided in the second half. They drew 0-0 in the reverse fixture so expect another tight game.
It would be a disappointing result for the home side, who risk losing more ground in the race for top four.
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