Brentford welcome Chelsea to Brentford Community Stadium on Friday evening for a West London derby between two teams separated by only one point after four Premier League matches.

The hosts remain unbeaten with one victory and three draws, while Chelsea have collected seven points from their opening four fixtures. Both teams have carried an attacking threat, but neither defence has been completely convincing.

Brentford remain unbeaten

Brentford have made a solid start to the season and are yet to lose in the Premier League.

Three of their opening four matches have ended level, including a 2–2 draw against Bournemouth in their latest league appearance. They have shown that they can remain competitive without controlling possession, with their direct attacking style making them dangerous whenever space opens up.

Chelsea are likely to have more of the ball, but that should give Brentford opportunities to attack on the break. The hosts will also look to use set pieces and the physical presence of Igor Thiago to test a Chelsea defence that has struggled during the opening weeks.

Chelsea are still searching for a clean sheet

Chelsea have scored in all four Premier League matches this season, but they are yet to keep a clean sheet.

Their latest league match ended in a 2–2 draw against Hull at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea created enough chances to win, but defensive mistakes allowed the visitors to take the lead before João Pedro secured a point in the second half.

João Pedro has started the season with three goals and three assists, although he remains a doubt for Friday’s match. Reece James and Moisés Caicedo are also facing late fitness tests.

Even if Chelsea are forced to make changes, Cole Palmer and the rest of their attacking players should create chances against Brentford. The main concern is whether they can control the home side at the other end.

Verdict

Chelsea have enough attacking quality to score, but backing them to win away from home looks risky when Brentford remain unbeaten and several Chelsea players are doubtful.

The visitors have conceded in every Premier League match this season, while Brentford should create opportunities through counterattacks and set pieces. With both teams looking more convincing going forward than defensively, goals at both ends look likely.

Tip

Both teams to score