Chelsea will clash heads with Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge on Sunday evening, hoping to pick up a win in the semi-finals of the FA Cup competition. The Blues will be heading into the contest on the back of a hard-fought 3-2 loss to Real Madrid, whereas the Eagles recorded a narrow 2-1 loss to Leicester City on April 10.
Team News
Ben Chilwell (knee) and Callum Hudson Odoi (back problems) could remain unavailable for the weekend clash, whereas Romelu Lukaku’s availability depends on whether he has recovered from the Achilles problem.
Thomas Tuchel will probably opt for the 3-4-3 formation; however, he is expected to make a couple of changes for the upcoming contest. Jorginho might get the nod over Mateo Kovacic in midfield, whereas Cesar Azpiliceuta looks likely to make his way back into the starting eleven.
3-4-3 Chelsea Predicted Lineup Vs Crystal Palace
Defence
Edouard Mendy is expected to start between the sticks for the upcoming clash. The Senegalese shot-stopper will hope to put up a strong performance and secure a clean sheet on Sunday.
Thiago Silva is expected to start at the heart of Blues’ backline, whereas Antonio Rudiger will feature at the left centre-back spot. Cesar Azpilicueta will fulfil the right centre-back position.
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Midfield
Jorginho and N’Golo Kante might fulfil the holding midfield positions, with the former occupying a more central role. The pair would be looking to dominate the midfield proceedings.
Marcos Alonso might start at the left wing-back position, whereas Reece James will fill in on the other flank as the right wing-back. The duo would be expected to stretch Chelsea’s attacks in the opposition half.
Mateo Kovacic will have to settle for a place on the bench, but he could be brought on in the latter stages of the game if needed.
Attack
Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic will slot into the attacking midfield roles. The duo would be determined to set up some clear-cut goal-scoring chances for the front-men.
Kai Havertz might lead the line for Chelsea this weekend. The 22-year-old striker will be hoping to find the back of the net when he faces off against the Palace defence that has kept four clean sheets in their last five matches across all competitions.
Timo Werner might come on to make a cameo appearance in the second forty-five minutes.
