Chelsea vs West Ham: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 31 January 2026
One of the matches in round 24 of the English Premier League will be played on Saturday at Stamford Bridge in London, where Chelsea will host West Ham United. Let's take a closer look at the possible outcome of this derby, taking into account the current form of both teams.
Match preview
Under the guidance of Liam Rosenior, Chelsea have found new life: five wins in their last six matches across all competitions and a confident comeback against Napoli (3-2) in the Champions League are solid proof. The team has improved offensively, with João Pedro emerging as the main star in recent weeks, scoring four goals in four matches.
On the domestic front, the Blues are also showing consistency – two consecutive Premier League victories, including a convincing away win against Crystal Palace (3-1). Chelsea are closing in on the top four and will be looking to extend their winning run at Stamford Bridge, especially given their dominant head-to-head record against West Ham.
After going ten matches without a win, the Hammers have started to climb out of their crisis. Nuno Espírito Santo's men have won their last three games in all competitions – including two in the Premier League, where they beat Tottenham (1-0) and Sunderland (3-1).
Despite this local success, West Ham still find themselves in the relegation zone, trailing well behind safety. Their away record at Chelsea is dire – no wins in their last five visits and just one victory in their previous 19 encounters at Stamford Bridge. However, the form of some newcomers brings hope, especially the attacking duo of Castellanos and Felipe, who have been productive up front.
Probable line-ups
- Chelsea: Sanchez, Gusto, Chalobah, Fofana, Cucurella, James, Caicedo, Neto, Fernandez, Garnacho, Pedro
- West Ham: Areola, Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Mavropanos, Diouf, Bowen, Fernandes, Soucek, Summerville, Pablo, Castellanos
Match facts and head-to-head
- Chelsea have won their last four Premier League matches against West Ham, with an aggregate score of 15-2
- West Ham haven’t won at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League since November 2019
- Chelsea can win three consecutive Premier League matches by a margin of 2+ goals for the first time since 2020
Prediction
Both teams come into this match in good spirits, but Chelsea’s current form inspires greater confidence. Rosenior’s side have improved across all areas and look assured even amid personnel shortages. West Ham are making progress, but an away trip to Stamford Bridge remains a tough challenge for the Hammers, and they may not yet be fully up to the task. Most likely, the Blues will secure their third straight Premier League victory.
