Chelsea, reigning FIFA Club World Cup champions and recent Conference League winners, open their Premier League title defense against Crystal Palace this Sunday. The match, the 2025/26 Premier League curtain-raiser, will be played at Stamford Bridge in London with kickoff at 10:00 a.m. Brasília time.
How Chelsea arrive
Chelsea kick off the English season after lifting the FIFA Club World Cup and the Conference League crown. The club has bolstered the squad with new signings such as João Pedro and Gittens to reinforce the side, and they aim to challenge for the title in 2025/26 after finishing fourth last season. In their most recent friendly, they beat AC Milan 4-1, with goals from an own goal by Coubis, João Pedro and a brace from Liam Delap.
How Crystal Palace arrive
Crystal Palace head into the opener buoyed by their domestic success, having won the FA Cup and the English Super Cup by overcoming Liverpool on penalties. The Eagles have added keeper Benítez and full-back Sosa as they seek to convert their knockout tournament form into a stronger league campaign. After finishing 12th in the previous Premier League season, Palace will be eyeing an uptick in league performance.
Head-to-head record
Chelsea and Crystal Palace have met 67 times, with the Blues holding a clear advantage: 38 wins to Palace’s 12, with the remaining encounters ending in draws. Their most recent clash finished level at 1-1.
Where to watch
The Chelsea vs. Crystal Palace clash will be broadcast live on ESPN and via Disney+. Real-time updates will also be available on 365Scores.
Match details
Chelsea vs. Crystal Palace
Competition: Premier League 2025/26 – Matchday 1
Date and time: August 17, 2025, 10:00 a.m. Brasília time
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London
Broadcast: ESPN and Disney+
Probable lineups
Chelsea
Sánchez; James, Chalobah, Adarabioyo, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernández, Neto, Gittens, Palmer; João Pedro
Manager: Enzo Maresca
Crystal Palace
Henderson; Guehi, Lacroix, Richards; Muñoz, Hughes, Wharton, Mitchell, Eze, Sarr; Mateta
Manager: Oliver Glasner
What to watch
– João Pedro’s Premier League debut for Chelsea and how he fits into Maresca’s system.
– The balance of Chelsea’s new signings with their established spine in midfield and attack.
– Palace’s ability to translate knockout-stage success into league form, especially in away fixtures.
– Early tactical battles: Chelsea’s midfield creativity against Palace’s compact defense and counter options.
Additional notes and context
– Chelsea’s early-season run could set the tone for their title challenge, especially as they aim to capitalize on their recent silverware and fresh additions.
– Palace will look to leverage their recent trophy-winning momentum to push up the table and challenge for European qualification spots.
Overall outlook
This opening match should offer a compelling contrast between Chelsea’s high-tempo build-up play under Maresca and Palace’s disciplined, knockout-winning approach. Expect a competitive clash that could give Chelsea the momentum they need to launch a strong 2025/26 campaign, while Palace seek to establish a solid road platform early in the season.
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