Chelsea is set to host Ipswich Town at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, riding high after winning their last five Premier League matches at home. However, manager Enzo Maresca remains cautious in the face of their opponents’ recent history, which includes a surprise 2-0 win against Chelsea at Portman Road back in December.
Currently, Chelsea sits fourth with 53 points, aiming for Champions League qualification, while Ipswich struggles in 18th place, 12 points adrift from safety with only seven matches remaining this season. Maresca acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “In this moment, any team you face is complicated… They want to show themselves and finish in the right way.”
The fixture is pivotal for both teams, with Chelsea looking to consolidate their top-four position and Ipswich fighting desperately for survival. Ipswich’s forward Liam Delap has been a standout performer, scoring 12 league goals this season and having previously scored against Chelsea in their earlier matchup. Maresca complimented Delap’s style of play while reminding everyone that he is currently an Ipswich player: “He’s an enemy on Sunday because we need to beat them.”
Maresca’s men are expected to approach the game with vigilance, given Ipswich’s recent turbulent performances yet resilient spirit when facing top-tier teams. The match adds to the mounting tension as both teams battle for their respective season goals.
With Chelsea’s recent strong home performance and Ipswich’s determination, fans can anticipate an entertaining match that could potentially shift the dynamics of both the race for the Champions League and the fight against relegation.
Leave a comment