Date of Tips: 01/12/2025
Disclaimer The odds for these selections were correct at the time of publishing (14:44 01/12/2025) but may have changed since. Please check the latest price before placing your bet.
Leeds United FC
v Chelsea FC 
Elland Road
Premier League Matchday 14
03-12-2025 20:15
Leeds United Form
Chelsea Form
Leeds United host Chelsea at Elland Road on Wednesday night in a Premier League clash that feels bigger than just another midweek fixture. With both sides coming off dramatic matches against Manchester City and Arsenal, this one has plenty of storylines already baked in. And because of how tight things are at both ends of the table, the stakes are clear from the first whistle. So, here’s your Leeds United vs Chelsea prediction where we delve into what should be one of the standout games of the week.
Chelsea arrive unbeaten in seven across all competitions and flying away from home, while Leeds are trying to drag themselves out of the relegation zone after an encouraging but ultimately painful late defeat at the Etihad. Elland Road under the lights always hits differently, and this matchup sets up as a fascinating test of resilience, momentum, and sheer nerve.
Leeds head into this match with a few concerns, but also a bit of welcomed relief. James Justin had to be withdrawn against Manchester City, though Daniel Farke described it as only a “little hit,” giving him a chance of featuring here. There’s a boost with Sebastiaan Bornauw (knee) and Anton Stach (concussion) potentially returning to the squad. However, Sean Longstaff’s calf issue looks far more serious, with the midfielder possibly missing the rest of 2025.
Farke’s changes at the Etihad — particularly the introductions of Jaka Bijol and Dominic Calvert-Lewin — completely changed the tone of the match. After trailing 2-0, Leeds battled back to 2-2 before Phil Foden spoiled the party late on. That spark may prompt the Leeds boss to trust that formula from the first whistle against Chelsea, pairing Calvert-Lewin with Nmecha to stretch the Blues’ back line.
Chelsea’s team news is more complicated. Moises Caicedo starts a three-game suspension following his red card against Arsenal, while Reece James is likely to be rested after a standout performance. That means Andrey Santos should step into midfield alongside Enzo Fernandez, freeing room for more creativity and pace further forward.
Enzo Maresca will also be without Levi Colwill (knee), Romeo Lavia (thigh), and Mykhaylo Mudryk (suspended). The positive note is that Dario Essugo has returned to full training, though he still needs time before being considered match-ready. Up front, Joao Pedro and Liam Delap look the likeliest central pairing for a side that has been ruthless away from home.
Perri; Rodon, Struijk, Bijol; Bogle, Gruev, Ampadu, Tanaka, Gudmundsson; Calvert-Lewin, Nmecha
Sanchez; Gusto, Adarabioyo, Chalobah, Cucurella; Santos, Fernandez; Estevao, Pedro, Neto; Delap
You’re looking at a matchup where both teams should create plenty of chances. Leeds have conceded multiple goals in four straight league matches, and Chelsea have scored in every away game this season. So, leaning toward goals makes sense.
Here are some angles worth considering:
Here’s what I think… Leeds will be competitive, no doubt. Their comeback attempt at the Etihad showed character, structure, and belief. But their defensive issues remain unsolved, and Chelsea are exactly the kind of team that punishes lapses.
Chelsea’s seven-match unbeaten run isn’t a fluke. They’re organised, increasingly confident under Maresca, and dangerous on the counter. Even without Caicedo and James, their squad depth — especially in attacking areas — should help them manage the game well.
Match Prediction: Chelsea to win. Bet with bet365.
A close match feels likely, but Chelsea’s quality in the final third might be the difference.
Correct score prediction: Leeds United 1–2 Chelsea
Correct Score Prediction: Leeds United 1–2 Chelsea. Bet with bet365.
Over/Under Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals. Bet with bet365.
A sensible, risk-balanced builder:
This aligns with the flow both clubs have shown in recent matches.
Bet Builder Tip: Chelsea to win, both teams to score, and Cole Palmer to score anytime. Bet with bet365.
Key Stats
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Chelsea are slight favourites thanks to their form and away record, but Leeds will make this competitive.
Yes, that feels likely given Leeds’ attacking energy and Chelsea’s consistency on the road.
Calvert-Lewin and Nmecha for Leeds, while Pedro, Delap, and Neto look key for Chelsea’s attacking threat.
It has all the ingredients for at least three goals.