Chelsea vs Leeds: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – 10 February 2026
The Matchday 26 fixture of the 2025/26 English Premier League season will take place on Tuesday, February 10th, at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea will host Leeds United. The home side are aiming to solidify their place in the Champions League zone, while the visitors are looking to finally steer clear of the relegation battle.
Match preview
Chelsea, under the leadership of Liam Rosenior, have shown impressive consistency, winning all four of their league matches since he took charge. In the previous round, the Blues confidently dispatched Wolverhampton (3-1), moving them ever closer to the top four. The team boasts high attacking output, averaging nearly two goals per game. At home, the Blues traditionally dominate, and the return of captain Reece James—set to make the squad for this match—adds both reliability and tactical flexibility for Rosenior.
However, Chelsea continue to suffer from personnel shortages in defense and midfield. Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Romeo Lavia remain sidelined. Despite this, squad depth allows Rosenior to rotate effectively, especially up front, where Cole Palmer and João Pedro are shining. Chelsea will be eager to avenge their painful defeat to Leeds in the first half of the season (1-3), so expect the hosts to apply relentless pressure on the visitors’ goal from the opening whistle.
Leeds United sit 16th in the table and play a bold yet inconsistent brand of football. In the last round, Daniel Farke’s men defeated Nottingham Forest (3-1), snapping a poor run of results. The main issue for the Peacocks remains their away form: in 12 away games this season, they have managed just one win and have suffered seven defeats. Nonetheless, Leeds remain one of the most awkward opponents for top clubs, thanks to their aggressive style and ability to break quickly from defense. Star striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been a standout this season, already netting 10 goals.
The visitors’ injury situation is a little better than Chelsea’s, with only German midfielder Anton Stach still out. At Stamford Bridge, Leeds will likely opt for a deep defensive block, hoping to capitalize on set pieces and Chelsea’s occasional defensive errors under pressure. For the Peacocks, every point is worth its weight in gold, so expect them to fight for a result until the final whistle, looking to slow the tempo at every opportunity.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Chelsea have conceded in each of their last five matches.
- Four out of Chelsea’s last five matches have seen more than two goals.
- Leeds have also conceded in three straight matches.
- Both teams have scored in five of Leeds’ last seven matches.
- Chelsea have won seven of the last ten head-to-head meetings against Leeds in all competitions.
- In the reverse fixture earlier this season (December 2025), Leeds claimed a 3-1 victory.
Probable lineups
- Chelsea: Sánchez – Gusto, Fofana, Chalobah, Cucurella – James, Caicedo, Palmer – Neto, Fernández, Pedro
- Leeds: Darlow – Justin, Rodon, Struijk – Bogle, Ampadu, Gruev, Gudmundsson – Aaronson, Okafor, Calvert-Lewin
Prediction
I believe Chelsea’s home pedigree and current form should outweigh the visitors’ determination. The Blues look far more balanced right now and are out for revenge after December’s defeat. Given Leeds’ poor away record and the sheer number of chances Chelsea create in every match, my prediction is a Chelsea victory.
