Chelsea will look to bounce back when they welcome Fulham to Stamford Bridge for a festive London derby on Boxing Day.
After a hard-fought 0-0 stalemate at Goodison Park, Enzo Maresca’s side will be hungry to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool and end 2024 on a high note in front of their home fans.
Fulham, sitting ninth, have proven their resilience with four draws in their last five outings, including impressive results against Arsenal, Liverpool, and Spurs. Marco Silva’s side will look to frustrate the hosts with a direct approach while hoping their attacking threats can spring a surprise.
STREAM: Chelsea vs. Fulham LIVE in US on Peacock
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.
Chelsea vs. Fulham live stream, TV channel
Here’s how to watch this Premier League match in the U.S.:
TV channel: —
Live stream: Peacock
This game is not available for live TV broadcast in the United States. Streaming options are available on Peacock.
WATCH: Best of Premier League action on Peacock
What time does Chelsea vs. Fulham kick off?
This Premier League clash takes place at the Stamford Bridge in London, England and kicks off on Wednesday, December 26th at 3:00 p.m. local time.
Here’s how that time translates across the U.S.:
| Date | Kickoff time | |
| Eastern Time | Wed, Dec. 26 | 10:00 a.m. |
| Central Time | Wed, Dec. 26 | 9:00 a.m. |
| Mountain Time | Wed, Dec. 26 | 8:00 a.m. |
| Pacific Time | Wed, Dec. 26` | 7:00 a.m. |
Chelsea vs. Fulham lineups, team news
Chelsea could see a more familiar backline against Fulham, with Marc Cucurella returning from suspension. Axel Disasi and Malo Gusto are likely to revert to their regular roles, adding stability to a defense that adapted well at Goodison Park.
However, Reece James and Wesley Fofana remain sidelined with hamstring issues. Romeo Lavia might finally make his long-awaited return. Benoit Badiashile is still unavailable, leaving Tosin Adarabioyo to continue impressing.
Chelsea predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Sanchez (GK) — Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella — Enzo, Caicedo — Neto, Palmer, Madueke — Jackson.
Fulham have their own injury headaches, with Emile Smith Rowe likely to miss out and midfield duo Sasa Lukic and Sander Berge both doubtful. Andreas Pereira returns from suspension, potentially pushing young Josh King back to the bench despite his solid Premier League debut.
Kenny Tete and Reiss Nelson are long-term absentees, adding to Silva’s challenges. Up front, Fulham may rotate between Raul Jimenez and Rodrigo Muniz, the latter fresh off a solid performance against Southampton.
Fulham predicted XI (4-3-3 right to left): Leno (GK) — Castagne, Andersen, Bassey, Robinson — Cairney, Pereira, Iwobi — Wilson, Jimenez, Adama.
Chelsea vs. Fulham prediction
Everton did not leave any stone unturned to frustrate Chelsea with a draw. But with Stamford Bridge hosting its final game of the year, expect an extra edge as Chelsea look to deliver a performance worthy of the occasion against Fulham.
If they want to keep the pressure on Liverpool, the Blues should win the game.
Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Fulham
Premier League fixture schedule this week
All times ET
Thursday, December 26
- Man City vs. Everton (7:30 a.m.)
- Bournemouth vs. Crystal Palace (10 a.m.)
- Chelsea vs. Fulham (10 a.m.)
- Newcastle United vs. Aston Villa (10 a.m.)
- Nottingham Forest vs. Aston Villa (10 a.m.)
- Southampton vs. West Ham (10 a.m.)
- Wolves vs. Man United (12:30 p.m.)
- Liverpool vs. Leicester (3 p.m.)
Friday, December 27
- Brighton vs. Brentford (2:30 p.m.)
- Arsenal vs. Ipswich (3:15 p.m.)
