This Sunday the Premier League offers up an electrifying London Derby as Arsenal and Chelsea clash in a crucial encounter (1.30pm). Both teams have their eyes on securing a top-four finish, though the Gunners might still entertain dying hopes of lifting the title. However, their recent slip-up against Manchester United saw Liverpool extend their lead at the top of the table, making every remaining fixture a must-win for Mikel Arteta’s side.
For Chelsea, the stakes are equally high. The Blues currently occupy the final Champions League qualification spot, but anything less than three points this weekend could see them tumble down to fifth. With so much at stake, the Emirates is set for a thrilling battle but can we capitalise on the bookies‘ betting markets with this AFC vs CFC preview?
AFC vs CFC Match Odds & Analysis
Arsenal come into this fixture with a six-point advantage over Chelsea and the added benefit of home support. Unsurprisingly, bookmakers have them as odds-on favourites at 4/5 to take all three points. The draw is listed at 11/4, while a Chelsea victory is available at a tempting 18/5 (just over 7/2).
Recent form leans slightly in Arsenal’s favour. Over their last six Premier League outings, the Gunners have secured 11 points, compared to Chelsea’s nine. However, both sides had midweek European commitments:
- Arsenal fought to a 2-2 draw against PSV Eindhoven at home in the Champions League, having dominated the first leg 7-1.
- Chelsea edged past FC Copenhagen with a 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge to book their spot in the next round in the Europa Conference League.
While the odds suggest a comfortable home win, league standings and recent performances hint at a tighter contest at the Emirates.
Key Side Bets & Goalscorer Markets
Arsenal are set to be without key attacking trio Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, which has shifted the focus onto alternative scorers. Leandro Trossard leads the First Goalscorer market at 6/1, followed closely by Ethan Nwaneri and Mikel Merino at 13/2.
For Chelsea, former Gunner Raheem Sterling is available at 7/1, the same odds as Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli. Cole Palmer is Chelsea’s leading candidate at 15/2, while Christopher Nkunku sits slightly further back at 9/1.
Behind the main attackers, Martin Odegaard is valued at 17/2, while defensive midfielder Declan Rice, who has found the net in Arsenal’s last two league games, is an intriguing option at 13/1. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Pedro Neto, who boasts five goals in all competitions, can be backed at 14/1.
For those expecting a high-scoring affair, Both Teams to Score (BTTS) is set at 8/11, with the ‘No’ option slightly higher at 11/10.
Total Goals Markets
- Over 2.5 Goals: 10/11
- Over 3.5 Goals: 11/5
- Under 2.5 Goals: 10/11
Given the attacking absences for Arsenal, bettors may lean toward a lower-scoring game. However, Chelsea’s recent defensive inconsistencies suggest an alternative approach might pay off.
Correct Score Predictions
- Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea – 14/1
- Chelsea 2-1 Arsenal – 16/1
- 2-2 Draw – 16/1
Expert Verdict & Best Bets
The major concern for Arsenal backers is their current lack of firepower. Without their three key forwards, Arteta’s men have struggled to find the net, scoring just three goals across their last four league games, including two matches where they failed to score altogether. However, the emergence of Declan Rice as a goal threat provides a glimmer of hope.
Chelsea have shown resilience despite their inconsistent form. While they were once tipped as title challengers, their performances have stabilised, making them a dangerous opponent. Given Arsenal’s injuries and Chelsea’s ability to frustrate big teams, a draw at 11/4 looks like a solid play.
For those looking for a higher-risk, higher-reward option, Over 3.5 Goals at 11/5 is an enticing bet. If Arsenal’s midfielders step up and Chelsea continue their trend of chaotic games, we could be in for a thrilling, goal-laden encounter. However that wager is a recurring choice of ours that rarely pays off. So for the betting tips, this preview will stick to the one.
Betting Tip for this AFC vs CFC Preview
✅ The Draw at best odds of 11/4 with BetFred.
With both teams desperate for points, expect a high-intensity clash where Chelsea have every chance of frustrating their hosts. A tight, entertaining contest awaits at the Emirates.
Matt Harris is a football & golf writer for Just Bookies. Other sports in his portfolio of specialities include cricket. Matt has contributed to innumerable large organisations and media brands. These include: Betfair, BetVictor, USA Betting & Unibet. 