Chelsea
Tottenham HotspurBy Kelechi Balogun — Football expert specializing in European and American leagues
The London derby is heading Down Under as Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur prepare to lock horns in another pre-season friendly on Australian soil. Xabi Alonso’s side are riding a wave of momentum, having won the last six meetings between these two clubs, and they will be eager to extend that streak. Roberto De Zerbi, meanwhile, is desperate to snap Tottenham’s losing run against their city rivals and build some positive momentum ahead of the new campaign.
Chelsea have kicked off their pre-season tour in Australia, and Alonso’s tactical demands are already taking shape. In their first friendly, the Blues produced a goal-fest, dismantling Western Sydney Wanderers with a tennis-like scoreline of 6-4. Advanced metrics back up the result: Chelsea posted an expected goals (xG) of 3.22 against 1.81 for their opponents. However, the decisive edge only arrived after the 60th minute, when the first-team regulars entered the fray. The standout performer was João Pedro, who bagged a hat-trick and added an assist in a devastating spell.
The squad has been bolstered by the arrivals of Morgan Rogers, Marco Palestra, Geovani Kenda, and Emmanuel Emegha. At the same time, four players have left: Andrey Santos, Marc Cucurella, and Tariq George were sold, while Alejandro Garnacho departed on loan. Chelsea are also closing in on the signings of veterans Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson, with Alonso convinced that such experienced leaders are exactly what the dressing room needs right now.
Injury and availability issues remain a concern. New signings Emegha and Kenda are sidelined with injuries, while Rogers, Enzo Fernández, Malo Gusto, and Pedro Neto did not travel to Australia due to post-2026 World Cup rest. The club has also excluded Trevoh Chalobah, Benoît Badiashile, and Axel Disasi from the trip as they look to find new clubs for them. On a brighter note, Moisés Caicedo and Nicolas Jackson have completed their holidays, arrived in Sydney, and are ready to feature.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side are gradually building match fitness, but the quality of their football on this Australian tour has raised some questions. Before heading overseas, they edged MK Dons 1-0, then in Oceania they beat Auckland 2-0 and drew 1-1 with Sydney FC (winning 4-2 on penalties). In that last friendly, Spurs failed to impress: despite dominating possession, they created chances only with difficulty. The modest xG figures of 1.43 against 0.73 tell the story. The positives were limited to a fine free-kick goal from Mathys Tel and the freshness of James Maddison and Dominic Solanke, whom the manager deliberately rested ahead of this derby.
The summer transfer window has seen Yves Bissouma leave as a free agent and defender Luka Vuskovic sold to Brighton. In response, Tottenham have brought in midfielder Sandro Tonali from Newcastle and Mateusz Fernandes, bought from West Ham. The defence has been reinforced with Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton), Andrew Robertson (Liverpool), and Marcos Senesi (Bournemouth). This large but targeted overhaul is designed to quickly stabilise De Zerbi’s playing model.
The coaching staff are dealing with a serious shortage of personnel, forcing them to patch gaps with reserves. The injury list is a nightmare: Mohammed Kudus, Dejan Kulusevski, Wilson Odober, Xavi Simons, and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario are all recovering. The situation is worsened by the absence of a large group of key players – Porro, Bentancur, Sarr, and Spence have not yet returned from post-World Cup breaks. Furthermore, top new signing Mateusz Fernandes is a major doubt due to a muscle spasm and may miss Saturday’s London derby.
Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sánchez – Palestra, Colwill, Adarabioyo, Hato – Lavia, Essugo – Estevao, Palmer, João Pedro – Delap
Unavailable: Kenda, Emegha (both injured), James, Neto, Gusto, Fernández (all not in squad), Disasi, Chalobah, Badiashile (club decision)
Head coach: Xabi Alonso
Tottenham (4-2-3-1): Kinsky – Hall, van de Ven, Davies, Kirematen – Gallagher, Tonali – Solomon, Maddison, Tel – Solanke
Unavailable: Simons, Kulusevski, Odober, Kudus, Vicario (all injured), Romero, Senesi, Spence, Porro, Bentancur, Sarr (all not in squad), Fernandes (doubtful)
Head coach: Roberto De Zerbi
Main prediction: Chelsea to win at 2.29
Both sides are grappling with significant squad issues ahead of this derby. Yet even amid mutual absences, Chelsea look the stronger proposition. The key argument in favour of the Blues is their psychological edge and a massive head-to-head advantage – they have won the last six meetings in a row. Moreover, unlike Spurs, who have struggled to create chances, Alonso’s men have already demonstrated fearsome attacking firepower. The high match sharpness of Cole Palmer and João Pedro, both of whom missed the World Cup, could prove decisive in tipping the scales. Back Chelsea to claim the win.
Total goals prediction: Over 3.5 at 2.27
Given Chelsea’s potent attack and the defensive vulnerabilities on both sides, this match has all the ingredients for another goal-filled spectacle. In their first pre-season outing, the Blues showed a clear attacking bias, scoring six but also conceding four. Tottenham’s far-from-optimal backline is unlikely to contain that onslaught, but Spurs themselves should capitalise on the still-disorganised Chelsea defence – especially since they have scored in all three of their pre-season games so far. With tactical experiments, rotation, and less-than-perfect fitness levels, neither side is likely to shut up shop. Our pick: over 3.5 goals.
The editorial prediction is provided for informational purposes only and should not be treated as a direct call to action. Every reader should do their own analysis before deciding on a bet.
Chelsea4-2-3-1
Tottenham Hotspur4-2-3-1I expect both teams to score plenty of goals against each other in this match. The attacking play and defensive vulnerabilities point to a high‑scoring affair, so I'm confidently backing both sides to find the net multiple times.
I predict both teams will score, as they are both playing with strong attacking intent and have shown consistent offensive output in recent matches.
I'm making this prediction without any analytics. I trust my own judgment and experience, and I'm confident in the outcome. No need for complex data models when you have a clear sense of the situation.
I’m betting that this will be a closely contested match, with both sides showing strong defensive organization and tactical discipline. The key factor will be which team can capitalize on set pieces or individual moments of brilliance, as open play chances are likely to be limited. I expect a low-scoring affair, probably decided by a single goal, and I’m leaning toward the team with the more experienced midfield to edge it.
I expect a high-scoring match here, with at least three goals total. Both sides are likely to push for attack, making the over the clear bet.
I'm backing over 3.5 goals in Chelsea vs Tottenham. Both teams are in strong attacking form and their recent head-to-heads have consistently produced high-scoring affairs. With defensive vulnerabilities on both sides, I expect an open, end-to-end match with multiple goals. This bet offers great value at the current odds.
I’m confident Chelsea will win today. Alonso is already shaping the team’s style, and that tactical clarity gives them the edge they need. The squad is motivated and ready to execute his plan, so I expect a strong performance and three points.
My prediction is that both teams will score in the second half. The reasoning is simple: second halves often see more open play as fatigue sets in and teams push for goals, and both sides have shown they can find the net late in games. I’m confident this bet will hit.
I'm confident Chelsea will take the win here. They simply have a much stronger squad and far fewer injuries right now, giving them a clear edge in quality and depth. That's the key difference in this matchup.
I confidently predict Chelsea will score at least 2 goals. The head-to-head record is firmly on their side.
I don't expect many corner kicks in this match. The focus will be on building play through the midfield.
I'm confident Chelsea will win the London derby against Tottenham. The aristocrats are taking all three points.
In this London derby on neutral ground, I'm firmly backing Chelsea. Tottenham are dealing with serious squad issues—muscle fatigue and minor knocks have forced several key creators and defensive leaders to sit out. Enzo Maresca, by contrast, is ready to unleash his main attacking weapons, who just put six past their last opponent. Yes, Chelsea's defense is still raw, but with that insane attacking depth and total midfield dominance, they'll simply steamroll a weakened Spurs side. I'm taking the hosts to win outright.
I'm confident Chelsea will score more than two goals. There's hardly any doubt in my mind.
I expect Chelsea to win this match against Tottenham. They have the quality and home advantage to get the result, and I'm confident they'll get the job done.
I watched Tottenham's pre-season friendlies, and they looked far from convincing. Given how shaky that Spurs defense is, I'm confident Chelsea will score at least three goals against them.
I'm predicting a Chelsea win in this London derby in Australia. The Blues have superior squad depth and tactical flexibility, which should give them the edge over their rivals in this pre-season setting.
I expect both teams to take plenty of corners today, so this total should hit without any issues.
I'm confidently taking under 2.5 goals here. Chelsea are in a terrible run of form, their attack looks blunt, and they simply don't have the firepower to blow anyone away right now. That means a tight, low-scoring affair is the most likely outcome.
I'm confident Chelsea will beat TTH. They're still looking weak and inconsistent, so I see this as a straightforward win for Chelsea.
I'm confident that the Chelsea vs. Tottenham match will produce at least 4 goals. Both teams are aggressive going forward and have shown defensive lapses this season, so I expect plenty of action and scoring opportunities from kickoff.
I'm predicting a blowout in this preseason clash between two Premier League sides. The Blues are going to dominate and secure a big win.
I took this forecast today. I'm confident it will resolve as described.
I expect the home side to be slightly luckier in converting their chances, which will be the decisive edge in this match.
I'm confident this derby will deliver goals. The open, attacking style that defines these heated rivalries consistently produces high-scoring affairs. I'm betting on the over.
I'm confident they'll add more in the second. The pattern is clear and my bet is simple: they finish stronger.
I’m confident Chelsea will win today. Alonso is already shaping the team’s style, and that tactical clarity gives them the edge they need. The squad is motivated and ready to execute his plan, so I expect a strong performance and three points.
I'm confident Chelsea will take the win here. They simply have a much stronger squad and far fewer injuries right now, giving them a clear edge in quality and depth. That's the key difference in this matchup.
I'm confident Chelsea will win the London derby against Tottenham. The aristocrats are taking all three points.
In this London derby on neutral ground, I'm firmly backing Chelsea. Tottenham are dealing with serious squad issues—muscle fatigue and minor knocks have forced several key creators and defensive leaders to sit out. Enzo Maresca, by contrast, is ready to unleash his main attacking weapons, who just put six past their last opponent. Yes, Chelsea's defense is still raw, but with that insane attacking depth and total midfield dominance, they'll simply steamroll a weakened Spurs side. I'm taking the hosts to win outright.
I expect Chelsea to win this match against Tottenham. They have the quality and home advantage to get the result, and I'm confident they'll get the job done.
I'm predicting a Chelsea win in this London derby in Australia. The Blues have superior squad depth and tactical flexibility, which should give them the edge over their rivals in this pre-season setting.
I'm confidently taking under 2.5 goals here. Chelsea are in a terrible run of form, their attack looks blunt, and they simply don't have the firepower to blow anyone away right now. That means a tight, low-scoring affair is the most likely outcome.
I'm confident Chelsea will beat TTH. They're still looking weak and inconsistent, so I see this as a straightforward win for Chelsea.
I took this forecast today. I'm confident it will resolve as described.
I expect both teams to score plenty of goals against each other in this match. The attacking play and defensive vulnerabilities point to a high‑scoring affair, so I'm confidently backing both sides to find the net multiple times.
I predict both teams will score, as they are both playing with strong attacking intent and have shown consistent offensive output in recent matches.
I expect a high-scoring match here, with at least three goals total. Both sides are likely to push for attack, making the over the clear bet.
I'm backing over 3.5 goals in Chelsea vs Tottenham. Both teams are in strong attacking form and their recent head-to-heads have consistently produced high-scoring affairs. With defensive vulnerabilities on both sides, I expect an open, end-to-end match with multiple goals. This bet offers great value at the current odds.
My prediction is that both teams will score in the second half. The reasoning is simple: second halves often see more open play as fatigue sets in and teams push for goals, and both sides have shown they can find the net late in games. I’m confident this bet will hit.
I confidently predict Chelsea will score at least 2 goals. The head-to-head record is firmly on their side.
I'm confident Chelsea will score more than two goals. There's hardly any doubt in my mind.
I watched Tottenham's pre-season friendlies, and they looked far from convincing. Given how shaky that Spurs defense is, I'm confident Chelsea will score at least three goals against them.
I expect both teams to take plenty of corners today, so this total should hit without any issues.
I'm confident that the Chelsea vs. Tottenham match will produce at least 4 goals. Both teams are aggressive going forward and have shown defensive lapses this season, so I expect plenty of action and scoring opportunities from kickoff.
I'm predicting a blowout in this preseason clash between two Premier League sides. The Blues are going to dominate and secure a big win.
I expect the home side to be slightly luckier in converting their chances, which will be the decisive edge in this match.
I'm confident this derby will deliver goals. The open, attacking style that defines these heated rivalries consistently produces high-scoring affairs. I'm betting on the over.
I'm confident they'll add more in the second. The pattern is clear and my bet is simple: they finish stronger.
I’m betting that this will be a closely contested match, with both sides showing strong defensive organization and tactical discipline. The key factor will be which team can capitalize on set pieces or individual moments of brilliance, as open play chances are likely to be limited. I expect a low-scoring affair, probably decided by a single goal, and I’m leaning toward the team with the more experienced midfield to edge it.
I don't expect many corner kicks in this match. The focus will be on building play through the midfield.
I'm making this prediction without any analytics. I trust my own judgment and experience, and I'm confident in the outcome. No need for complex data models when you have a clear sense of the situation.
The match is on 1 August 2026 at 10:45, as part of the Club Friendlies tour in Australia.
The main prediction is Chelsea to win, with odds of 2.29, based on their six-match winning streak against Tottenham and superior attacking form.
For Chelsea, injured players include Kenda and Emegha, while Enzo Fernández, Pedro Neto, and others are absent due to post-World Cup rest. Tottenham have a long injury list: Kudus, Kulusevski, Simons, Vicario, and more, plus several key players like Porro and Bentancur are still on break.
The prediction is over 3.5 goals at 2.27 odds, due to Chelsea's attacking firepower and defensive vulnerabilities on both sides.
Chelsea are the favorites, having won their last six meetings with Tottenham and showing strong attacking output in pre-season, unlike Spurs who have struggled to create chances.