Analysis
The main topic at the Bridge is around the future of Frank Lampard. This has even overshadowed the John Terry-Anton Ferdinand handshake issue which occured when both teams met in September 2012.
Veteran Lampard, who is loved by the fans, netted his 191st and 192nd goals last Sunday as Chelsea survived a real scare away to Everton. It is with sort of determined attitude that coach Benitez will want to see his side perform against Queens Park Rangers.
The hosts are going through some sort of revival under the ex-Liverpool manager who is gradually controlling the temper of Roberto Di Matteo supporters. At the exception of Arsenal, England’s biggest football clubs all enjoyed a great New Year’s Day.
Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur scored no less than three goals each to add three more points to their previous tally. Chelsea are poised to emulate the feat of their rivals on Wednesday.
In fact, the Blues carry a great advantage for various reasons. Ahead of the encounter, they possess two games in hand over third-placed Spurs against whom they are only a point behind in the table. Besides, Queens Park Rangers are going through a dreadful run with three consecutive defeats.
With eight points off the safe zone and in 20th position, QPR are favourites to go down. Chelsea will be looking to add more misery to the current situation of their upcoming opponents.
One thing to note is that if the Blues take maximum points from their two matches in hand, they will find themselves only eight points behind league leaders Manchester United. According to Rafael Benitez, the challenge to scoop the 2012/13 English Premier League title is well and truly on.
There would not be a better way for the UEFA Europa League contenders to kick off 2013 than by trouncing Queens Park Rangers as they did the last time they hosted them.
Head-to-head – Last five matches
September 23, 2009: Chelsea 1-0 Queens Park Rangers (League Cup)
October 23, 2011: Queens Park Rangers 1-0 Chelsea (EPL)
January 28, 2012: Queens Park Rangers 0-1 Chelsea (FA Cup)
April 29, 2012: Chelsea 6-1 Queens Park Rangers (EPL)
September 15, 2012: Queens Park Rangers 0-0 Chelsea (EPL)
Prediction
Result: Chelsea 3-0 QPR
