Despite going through a shaky period themselves, going three matches without a victory, Manuel Pellegrini will know the importance of claiming the win this weekend, with City looking to reduce the gap at the top of the league. Last time out Man City were beaten 2-0 by Middlesbrough in the FA Cup at home. This defeat followed up another loss at home to Arsenal. William Hill U.S. prices them at +290 odds to pull of the upset, with the draw offered at +255.
The total in Las Vegas is 2.5 goals, with OVER priced as the -120 favorite.
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When these two sides met earlier in the season, they played out a 1-1 draw with Frank Lampard coming to City’s rescue to score a late equalizer and break the hearts of Chelsea fans. Lampard is expected to play a part in the match on Saturday, in what could be an emotional return to Stamford Bridge. City have dominated head-to-head in recent years, winning seven of their last 11 games, losing only twice, and they will hope to extend that run this weekend. Although the influential Yaya Toure is missing due to being at the African Cup of Nations, City should have enough to restrict the Blues who may be slightly fatigued from the midweek match. Diego Costa won’t be involved due to his three-match suspension, which is a huge loss for Mourinho’s side. There are also doubts over midfielder Cesc Fabregas after the former Arsenal man picked up an injury midweek. With this in mind, backing Manchester City at plus a half-goal (-115) at William Hill U.S. seems to offer some value. City know defeat will not be an option, with a Chelsea win meaning they will have a mountain to climb to retain their title but a draw – although far from ideal for the visitors – wouldn’t be the worst result for either side with plenty of games still to play.
Pellegrini’s side have been superb on the road in recent weeks, staying unbeaten in their last seven, winning five of those matches, including victories against Roma, Southampton and West Brom.
This story has been edited since its original version on Goal.com to reflect the odds offered in Las Vegas, where applicable.
