Chelsea predictions vs. Malmo: Safe and comfortable win, if a bit bland and dry

Chelsea can take a break from misery by securing their place in the next round of the Europa League. We predict a safe, if not easy, win for the Blues.

Chelsea do not need to do much to advance to the Europa League round of 16. They have a cushion of away goals, are playing at home and – obviously – are facing Malmo. Kepa Arrizabalaga will not play due to injury, so Willy Caballero will inject some entertainment in what would otherwise be another bland affair.

Barrett Rouen: 2 – 0. Even our lot should be able to do something here, though I don’t care anymore.

Scott Brant: 2 – 0. Unlike some, I still have hope, not because I like Maurizio Sarri or want him as a long-term solution. It’s simply because I really really hate losing and being embarrassed every week.

So once again, here’s to this being the match that turns the season around, with plenty of important matches left to go. I have no faith that will occur, but for once blind hope is my best option. I don’t know who will or won’t score. I just hope Chelsea looks dominant, interested, and motivated to make something of this pathetic attempt at being a top tier football club this season.

Gabe Henderson: 3 – 1. It’s hard for me to predict three goals nowadays, much less expect it. However, the Blues will turn it on when Malmo stun them with a goal.

Judging by the scoreline, a comfortable win, but the play on the pitch will be anything but. The same sluggish players will trot out and dress not to impress, playing heartlessly under Sarri once again. This win will just provide some fans with a glimmer of hope that Chelsea can win at the weekend, which is highly unlikely. Sarri survives to see another match, but it’s now a matter of when, not if.

Kevin Peacock: 3 – 0. Chelsea will not lose this game, but it won’t be a festival of fun. With Malmo chasing a couple of goals they will leave spaces that even the most unmotivated Blues player will be able to exploit. Chelsea will run out easy winners in the end with a couple of late goals. With a Wembley final to contest on Sunday, this game will simply be an appetizer ahead of the main event.

How do you think the Blues will come through against Malmo? Will there be much to read into this game, or is it a necessary formality? Let us know on Twitter!