Tips
January 4, 2026
Matchday 20 | Sunday, January 4, 2026 | Etihad Stadium | 20:30 EAT
Etihad Title Test: Can Pep's City Overpower Chaos-Hit Chelsea in 2026 Opener? ⚔️
The Etihad Stadium rings in the Premier League's 2026 action with a blockbuster as Manchester City host a Chelsea side in turmoil after Enzo Maresca's shock New Year's sacking. Pep Guardiola's Cityzens, second in the table and on a strong run, hunt a win to close on leaders Arsenal. The Blues, fifth but reeling from poor December form and managerial uncertainty (interim Callum McFarlane in charge), face a daunting trip – but their counter threat could exploit City's AFCON absences. History favors City heavily, but Chelsea chaos adds unpredictability.
Today’s Official Bet Options
Odds Sourced Live from Here – Shopped for Max Value! 📱
Bet | Selection | Odds (Sokabet.co.tz) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Main Bet | Manchester City to Win | 1.58 | ✅ |
High-Value Bomb | Over 2.5 Goals | 1.85 | 🔥 |
Safe Bet | Manchester City -1 Asian Handicap | 1.95 | ✅ |
Bet in Anytime scorer | Erling Haaland | 1.70 | ⚡ |
Monster Correct Score | Manchester City 3-1 Chelsea | 11.00 | 🎯 |
You can place your bets today through various betting sites such as: Betpawa, Sokabet , Sportybet, BetWinner etc.
Current Form – City Strong, Blues in Crisis
Manchester City
Title contenders: Recent 0-0 at Sunderland frustrating, but strong overall (2nd place)
Etihad reliable: Unbeaten home run; Haaland (19 goals) ruthless
Absences: Marmoush/Aït-Nouri at AFCON; Stones/Kovacic/Bobb injured
Chelsea
Chaos mode: Maresca sacked New Year's Day after poor run; 5th but vulnerable
Mixed away: Points taken but heavy losses; interim McFarlane debut
Squad: Largely intact, Cucurella possible return; no major AFCON hits
Head-to-Head: City Unbeaten Run
City unbeaten in last 11 vs Chelsea (W9 D2); won last 8 Etihad meetings. Recent often goals (over 2.5 in many).
Tactical Breakdown
Guardiola's City dominate possession, Haaland focal, Cherki/Foden flair unlocking – exploit Chelsea uncertainty. Interim Chelsea pragmatic, counters via Pedro/Palmer – but managerial void + Etihad factor favors hosts.
The Killer Stat for City Win
City unbeaten in 11 vs Chelsea; Blues winless at Etihad in league since 2021.
Final Prediction
Manchester City 3–1 Chelsea
Haaland brace, Cherki magic – Chelsea nick consolation but City cruise. Hosts start 2026 strong.
Bookies favor City amid Chelsea chaos – win + over printing. Load on Sokabet.co.tz; Etihad delivers!
Stake smart, enjoy the drama, and let's green up. 💰
City statement or Blues shock? Drop your score prediction on "Post your Tips" section ✍️
You can place your bets today through various betting sites such as: Betpawa, Sokabet , Sportybet, BetWinner etc.
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