Arsenal welcome Chelsea to the Emirates in a clash that carries major implications for both the Premier League title race and Champions League qualification.
The Gunners hold the edge in both form and recent head-to-heads, but Chelsea’s technical quality and attacking threats ensure this is no foregone conclusion. Kick-off is at 16:30 on Sunday 1 March as two of English football’s blue-bloods collide in what promises to be a fiercely contested London derby.
Best Bets & Predictions
Based on Arsenal’s attacking consistency, their defensive record, and Chelsea’s trend for high possession but lower conversion, here are our top betting recommendations for this match. We’re particularly confident in Arsenal’s ability to keep things tight at the back, while Chelsea’s price looks big for those seeking value in the outright market.
| Our Prediction | Odds & Bookmaker | Confidence | Why We’re Backing It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arsenal win and BTTS | 23/10 @ SBK (30.3%) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Arsenal have kept 13 clean sheets in 28 games (46%), including a 1-0 win over Chelsea in their most recent home clash. Their defence has conceded just 21 goals all season, while Chelsea have failed to score in 7 matches. |
| Over 3.5 goals | 15/8 @ SBK (34.5%) | ⭐⭐⭐ | Both teams rank high for expected goals (Arsenal xG 53.21, Chelsea xG 41.68). Arsenal games average just over 2.75 goals, and with attacking stars like Joao Pedro and Gyokeres, goalmouth action could be on the cards. |
Odds correct at the time of writing.
Arsenal vs Chelsea match odds
How both teams head into Arsenal vs Chelsea
Arsenal are enjoying a formidable 2025/26 Premier League campaign, currently sitting atop the table with a commanding lead. The Gunners have amassed 61 points from 28 matches, boasting a record of 18 wins, 7 draws, and just 3 defeats. This impressive form sees them five points clear of their closest rivals, Manchester City.
A significant factor in their success has been the prolific scoring of Viktor Gyökeres, who leads the team with 10 Premier League goals. The team has also demonstrated exceptional prowess from set-pieces, netting 19 goals from such situations, a leading figure across Europe’s top five leagues. With 28 matchdays completed, Arsenal’s consistent performance positions them strongly for a title challenge.
Chelsea’s 2025/26 Premier League campaign has been a season of mixed fortunes, with the club striving for consistency under manager Liam Rosenior. AThe Blues are navigating a competitive league, with their position reflecting a challenging run of fixtures. Their attacking impetus has largely come from João Pedro, who stands as their top scorer in the Premier League with 11 goals. Midfield maestro Enzo Fernández and creative forward Cole Palmer have also been instrumental, contributing with goals and assists.
The team’s recent form includes a 1-1 draw against Burnley in late February. With a tough schedule ahead, including 11 remaining matches, Chelsea are in a critical period to solidify their standing and push for European qualification. In their 34th consecutive season in the top flight, Chelsea’s performance profile indicates a team battling hard in a tightly contested league.
Arsenal team news
Arsenal receive a significant boost ahead of their Premier League clash with Chelsea, as Bukayo Saka is expected to be fit despite a minor knock sustained against Tottenham. Mikel Arteta confirmed that while Ben White and Kai Havertz have faced recent fitness tests, both are likely to feature in the matchday squad. However, the Gunners remain without Mikel Merino, who is sidelined with a long-term foot injury, and youngster Max Dowman, who is recovering from an ankle issue. Martin Ødegaard is set to lead the midfield as Arsenal look to maintain their very strong title challenge.
Chelsea team news
Chelsea face significant defensive challenges ahead of their Premier League clash with Arsenal. Liam Rosenior has confirmed that Marc Cucurella and Estevao Willian are both sidelined with hamstring injuries sustained during the recent draw with Burnley. Furthermore, Levi Colwill remains a long-term absentee as he continues his recovery from a severe knee injury. There are also concerns over Jamie Gittens and Dario Essugo, who are nursing hamstring and thigh issues respectively. However, Filip Jørgensen is expected to be available despite a minor knock. Consequently, Rosenior may be forced to reshuffle his backline for this crucial derby.
Season Form & Standings
Arsenal sit top of the table on 61 points after 28 matches, boasting the best goal difference (+35) and a league-high 18 wins. Chelsea, meanwhile, are 5th with 45 points from 27 games, a reflection of their inconsistent campaign. Last-5 form: Arsenal (WDWDW), Chelsea (DWWDL).
| Team | Pos | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arsenal | 1 | 28 | 18 | 7 | 3 | 56 | 21 | +35 | 61 |
| Chelsea | 5 | 27 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 48 | 31 | +17 | 45 |
Head-to-Head: Last 5 Meetings
Arsenal have enjoyed the better of recent encounters, winning three of the last five meetings, with two draws played out in that period. Their most recent meeting saw the Gunners edge a 1-0 League Cup victory at home.
| Date | Score | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 03/02/26 | Arsenal 1-0 Chelsea | League Cup |
| 14/01/26 | Chelsea 2-3 Arsenal | League Cup |
| 30/11/25 | Chelsea 1-1 Arsenal | Premier League |
| 16/03/25 | Arsenal 1-0 Chelsea | Premier League |
| 10/11/24 | Chelsea 1-1 Arsenal | Premier League |
Conclusion
Will Arsenal’s defensive solidity and recent dominance over Chelsea prove decisive, or can Chelsea’s technical midfield unlock a vital away result? The numbers point towards another strong Arsenal showing, but with Chelsea’s attacking quality there is always a chance of drama. Our top tip remains an Arsenal win and BTTS at 23/10 (30.3%) with SBK or a high-scoring shootout via over 3.5 goals at 15/8 (34.5%) with SBK. Whatever your angle, this London derby should deliver plenty of talking points.
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
