Fulham vs Chelsea prediction, H2H and probable lineups — 7 January 2026
As part of Matchday 21 in the English Premier League, Fulham and Chelsea are set to clash in London on Wednesday, 7 January. Kickoff is scheduled for 20:30 Central European Time. I’m backing a bet on goals in this encounter.
Match preview
Marco Silva’s side sits comfortably in mid-table, consistently picking up points. In recent matches, the Cottagers drew 1-1 with Crystal Palace and secured wins over West Ham and Nottingham Forest.
In their last outing, Fulham played out a vibrant 2-2 draw with Liverpool, with Harrison Reed smashing in a spectacular goal in the 90+7th minute to salvage a point, while Harry Wilson continued his impressive goal-and-assist form. That game was a testament to the team’s resilience and their never-say-die attitude.
This season, Fulham have shown a clear tendency for matches with goals at both ends—they score and concede with regularity, a direct result of their attacking philosophy and vulnerability to quick opposition counters.
Moreover, Fulham have already achieved significant away triumphs this campaign, notably ending a 35-match winless run at Burnley’s ground—a sign of growing confidence and maturity under Silva’s guidance.
Chelsea are enduring a tough stretch in the 2025/26 season, alternating dazzling displays with disappointing results. The Blues have dropped points in three straight league matches, including a 2-2 home draw against Bournemouth and a 1-2 defeat to Aston Villa.
These results highlight defensive frailties and missed opportunities in decisive moments. Earlier in 2025, the club’s management made a bold decision, sacking head coach Enzo Maresca.
The Italian is set to be replaced by the young and ambitious Liam Rosenior, who achieved notable success at Strasbourg. Reports indicate the new boss is already in London and will take charge in the coming days.
In their previous match, Chelsea salvaged a draw against Manchester City. Enzo Fernandez’s goal in the 90+4th minute was crucial, but Chelsea have slipped out of the top four and now trail leaders Arsenal by a massive 17 points.
Match facts
- Fulham are unbeaten in their last four matches.
- Chelsea have failed to win any of their last four games.
- Both teams have scored in each of Chelsea’s last five matches.
- Fulham average 1.7 goals per home game, while Chelsea net 1.8 goals per game on the road.
Probable lineups
- Fulham: Leno, Diop, Andersen, Cuenca, Robinson, Castagne, Lukic, Cairney, Smith Rowe, Wilson, Jimenez.
- Chelsea: Jorgensen, Chalobah, Fofana, James, Gusto, Fernandez, Caicedo, Palmer, Neto, Estevao, Joao Pedro.
H2H
- The teams haven’t drawn in any of their last six head-to-head meetings.
- Fulham have beaten Chelsea at home just once in the past 20 years.
Prediction
There’s no doubt Fulham have what it takes to challenge their illustrious visitors at home. Chelsea enter as favorites, but it won’t be a walk in the park. Expect an entertaining and action-packed contest—I’m tipping both teams to score.
