Chelsea’s win over Bournemouth a strong start to a pivotal week in PL, CL
By Vishnu Raj
With yet another international break on the horizon, Chelsea have a very important week ahead. Their next two matches will shape their momentum in the Champions League and Premier League.
Chelsea head into a key week on the back of their first clean sheet since September 23. The Blues now travel to Rome to face AS Roma on Tuesday. The hectic week concludes on Sunday at Stamford Bridge against Manchester United.
The last international break was not kind to Chelsea. They lost the matches on either side of the break. Chelsea were not able to keep up the good run they had after defeating Stoke City and Atletico Madrid, both away. They lost to league-leaders Manchester City heading into the break, and lost to bottom side Crystal Palace in the first game back. Alvaro Morata getting injured in the match against City and N’Golo Kante getting injured during the break did not help either.
Antonio Conte hates to lose. He can not even sleep after losing a match. The last thing he wants will be yet another sleepless international break. Heading into this break with a couple of wins always helps the mood and confidence around the club.
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Even though Bournemouth lies in the 19th spot, they had a very good week heading into their fixture with Chelsea. Since losing to Arsenal on September 9, they had lost just two matches in all competitions. They defeated Stoke City away before beating Middlesbrough to qualify for EFL cup quarter finals where they will face the blues. Chelsea can take away plenty of positives and be proud of their well-deserved 1-0 win.
AS Roma were impressive against Chelsea when they met at Stamford Bridge. The match in Rome will not be easy for the Blues. A victory will almost ensure Chelsea will qualify for round of 16 as group winners.
Jose Mourinho suffered a humiliating loss the last time Manchester United visited Stamford Bridge in the Premier League. With his team currently second place, they are in a better state than last year. Since it is Jose Mourinho, there is only one way he will set up his team for the big games. However, having defeated them twice at Stamford Bridge last season, the Blues’ faithful will be expecting all three points from the upcoming encounter.
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Even though winning all three matches would be the ideal result, Chelsea will be determined not to lose one, especially in the Premier league. All three opponents provide a different kind of challenge. If the Blues are up to the challenge, Antonio Conte can sleep well during the international break.