Chelsea will be looking to maintain their flawless reign under Thomas Tuchel this week when they take on Barnsley in the FA Cup last 16. The match schedules for Thursday at Oakwell, with kickoff at 11 pm.
The Oakwell travel this Thursday on three wins and a draw since Thomas Tuchel took over from Frank Lampard. On the other hand, Barnsley remains unbeaten in three Championship outings.
It did not take long before Tuchel restored the Chelsea fanbase’s confidence while lifting the London outfit to fifth in the Premier League with a three league winning run. Their most recent win is their 2-1 over Sheffield United. Jorginho proved vital for the win while converting a penalty kick.
It was the second game running where the Italian international proved the difference in a league game. He converted a penalty kick on the spot against Tottenham. Chelsea has momentum on their side while heading into the last 16 ties.
Moreover, Barnsley is mid-table in the Championship with ten wins and 11 losses from 27 games. Their last time out ended in a 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest. Three days after squandering a two goal lead against Cardiff City, it ended in a 2-2 draw.
The Tykes currently sit nine points off the playoffs with a game in hand on sixth-placed Bournemouth. History remains on Barnsley’s side with two wins in their recent encounters.
Barnsley vs. Chelsea Head to Head
Both sides have two games against each other, with one win against each other. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
Nottingham Forest 0-0 Barnsley
Barnsley 2-2 Cardiff City
Barnsley 1-0 Norwich City
Watford 1-0 Barnsley
Barnsley 2-0 Swansea City
Away
Sheffield United 1-2 Chelsea
Tottenham 0-1 Chelsea
Chelsea 2-0 Burnley
Chelsea 0-0 Wolves
Chelsea 3-1 Luton Town
Barnsley Team News
The hosts have a two week off advantage after their last match with Derby County was called off due to a waterlogged pitch. Ismael will hope to have some injured players back, including Aapo Halme, Liam Kitching, and Ben Williams.
Chelsea Team News
Thiago Silva will miss out after a hamstring injury during their win over Tottenham. However, Timo Werner and Kai Havertz are expected to shake off knocks this weekend. Tammy Abraham will be looking for a recall after eight-goal involvements in the FA Cup this season.
Prediction and Odds
Chelsea seems rejuvenated with new life under Thomas Tuchel and will be extending their winning run effortlessly.
Chelsea Win
Goals Over 2.5
Werner to Score
