Fulham vs Chelsea: Live Score, H2H & Bold Prediction

Fulham host Chelsea at Craven Cottage on Monday, August 24, 2026, in the opening round of the Premier League season. The match is scheduled for 19:00 UTC, with Chelsea’s official fixture listing showing an 20:00 BST kick-off.

This West London derby carries extra intrigue because both clubs begin the campaign with new managers. Álvaro Arbeloa takes charge of Fulham, while Xabi Alonso starts his Chelsea tenure. The two coaches previously shared dressing rooms during their playing careers, adding another storyline to an already fascinating fixture.

Fulham vs Chelsea: Standings and Momentum

According to the supplied match reference, Fulham enter the contest in 12th place, with Chelsea one position higher in 11th. However, the broader significance is clear: this is the first Premier League match of the 2026/27 campaign, so early-season positions can change rapidly.

Fulham’s recent preparation has offered encouragement. They defeated VfB Stuttgart 1-0 and Newcastle 2-0, while also drawing 1-1 with Wolves. Chelsea, meanwhile, beat Real Sociedad 3-1 and Milan 3-0 during pre-season but also suffered defeats against Juventus and Tottenham.

Fulham vs Chelsea H2H Record

Chelsea have historically enjoyed the stronger record in this rivalry. Current match data lists 13 Chelsea victories, six draws and three Fulham wins across the recorded head-to-head meetings. Chelsea’s advantage is also reflected in longer Premier League records between the clubs.

Yet recent meetings have shown that Fulham can cause Chelsea problems. The Cottagers won the previous meeting 2-1 in January, while the two sides shared the victories across their league meetings last season. That history makes a straightforward Chelsea victory far from certain.

Predicted Lineups and Key Players

Fulham are expected to use a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Bernd Leno in goal and players such as Antonee Robinson, Sander Berge, Alex Iwobi and Gonzalo García featuring in the projected XI. Chelsea are tipped to line up in a 3-4-2-1 system, with Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers operating behind João Pedro.

Both teams have availability concerns. Fulham are without suspended Joachim Andersen and injured Tom Cairney. Chelsea have several absences, including suspended Wesley Fofana and injured Jordan Henderson, Caleb Wiley and others.

Fulham vs Chelsea Prediction

Chelsea appear to have the stronger attacking options on paper, particularly with Palmer, Rogers and João Pedro. Their significant summer investment has also raised expectations around Alonso’s first season in charge. However, Fulham have home advantage and enter the derby with enough recent form to make this a competitive contest.

Prediction: Fulham 1-2 Chelsea.

Chelsea may control more of the possession and create the better attacking opportunities, but Fulham should remain dangerous through transitions and set pieces. The opening stages could be particularly important as both managers introduce new tactical ideas.

Where to Watch Fulham vs Chelsea

Fans can follow the Fulham vs Chelsea live score through major football live-score services, with real-time goals, cards, substitutions, possession, shots, corners and other match statistics available during the game. Broadcast availability varies by country. Chelsea’s official fixture page lists Sky Sports as the UK broadcaster.

The match takes place at Craven Cottage in London, where Fulham will hope their home support can disrupt Chelsea’s new era. With two new managers, a fierce local rivalry and three valuable opening-day points at stake, this Premier League clash promises plenty of drama.