Chelsea and Tottenham are undergoing significant changes ahead of the new season and hope to make up for a disappointing previous one as soon as possible. For now, they will meet only in a friendly on neutral ground in Sydney, Australia.
Chelsea
The Blues, under Xabi Alonso, will be among the contenders for at least a top-three finish, despite finishing 10th last season. Not only will the new head coach help, but so will a schedule free of European football. To challenge for the title, they need to buy proven players who have had at least several strong seasons, rather than young prospects for development and resale. For now, the key task is to strengthen the centre of defence, which lacks both depth and quality. Of course, spectators do not mind 10 goals in 90 minutes, but conceding four to Western Sydney Wanderers does not reflect well on Chelsea's defence.
Tottenham
Tottenham almost suffered relegation to the Championship last season, something that had never happened in the club's history. Roberto De Zerbi saved the team during a turbulent period: the Italian was not afraid to risk his reputation. Now, in gratitude, Spurs are spending millions of pounds and strengthening the squad to avoid a repeat of that nightmare. The most important additions have been made through the middle: Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes have been bought for the midfield for almost €200 million combined, while Jan Paul van Hecke has joined the defensive line. The free signing of Andrew Robertson is no less valuable.
Chelsea vs Tottenham Prediction
Unlike Chelsea, Tottenham did not allow local A-League sides to score many goals. Both matches went under: a 2:0 win over Auckland and a 1:1 draw with Sydney. We do not think Alonso and De Zerbi will put on a show while forgetting about defence. When choosing a winner, the Blues clearly have greater attacking potential — those same six goals against Western Sydney Wanderers — so victory is highly likely to go to the nominal hosts.
