The Premier League calendar delivers one of its most compelling fixtures on Saturday, February 28, 2026, as Arsenal hosts Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium. This London derby is more than just a local rivalry; it’s a clash with significant implications for the league table, European qualification, and bragging rights. For fans worldwide, knowing how to watch every minute is paramount. This guide provides a clear, authoritative breakdown of all broadcast and streaming options, ticket information, and key match context to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the action.
Match Preview: Stakes and Storylines
Scheduled for a 16:30 GMT kick-off, Arsenal vs Chelsea represents a pivotal moment in the 2025/26 Premier League season. Historically, encounters between these two clubs are fiercely contested, often influencing title races and top-four battles. By February 2026, the table context will be crystalizing, adding immense pressure to this fixture. Will Arsenal be defending a lead at the top? Can Chelsea disrupt their rivals’ momentum? The tactical battle between the managers and the duel of star players like Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Chelsea’s key assets promise a spectacle of the highest quality. For the latest team news, form guides, and expert analysis in the build-up, visiting authoritative sources like Sky Sports is highly recommended.
Official TV Broadcasters Worldwide
The global broadcast rights for the Premier League are distributed regionally. The following list details where to find the match on traditional television in key territories. Always check local listings for the most accurate channel numbers and any last-minute schedule changes.
United Kingdom: Sky Sports is the primary domestic broadcaster for this fixture. The match will be shown live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with comprehensive pre-match and post-match analysis from their studio team.
United States: NBCUniversal holds the Premier League rights. The game will be televised live on the USA Network, with simultaneous streaming available on Peacock. Spanish-language coverage will be provided by Telemundo.
Canada: Fans can watch live on fuboTV Canada, which holds the exclusive linear and streaming rights for the Premier League in the country.
Australia: Optus Sport streams every Premier League match live and on-demand for subscribers in Australia.
India & Subcontinent: The Star Sports network holds the rights, with live coverage available on their select channels and via the Disney+ Hotstar streaming platform.
Live Streaming Services and Online Access
For cord-cutters and mobile viewers, streaming is the most flexible way to watch. Services often require a subscription and geo-location verification corresponding to your broadcast region.
In the UK, subscribers can stream via the Sky Go app or NOW (formerly Now TV) with a Sky Sports Day or Month Pass. In the U.S., the match is available through the NBC Sports app (with cable authentication) or directly via a Peacock Premium subscription. Global fans should refer to the official Premier League website for a complete and verified list of streaming partners in their specific country. Never use unauthorized pirate streams, as they are illegal, unreliable, and often pose security risks.
Attending the Match: Ticket Information
Experiencing the derby atmosphere inside the Emirates Stadium is unparalleled. However, securing tickets for a match of this magnitude is extremely challenging. Official tickets are primarily allocated to Arsenal season ticket holders and registered members through a ballot system. Any remaining tickets, if available, would be sold via the club’s official website. The Arsenal official site is the only legitimate first-party source.
Fans are strongly advised to avoid secondary ticket marketplaces, as the club strictly prohibits unauthorized resale, and tickets obtained this way may be invalidated, leading to denied entry. For hospitality packages, which come at a significant premium, enquiries must be made directly through Arsenal’s official hospitality partners.
Key Player Matchups and Tactical Overview
This derby will be decided in key battles across the pitch. The midfield duel will be crucial: can Chelsea’s engine room disrupt the rhythm of Arsenal’s creative hubs? The flank battle between explosive wingers and defensive full-backs will provide constant fireworks. Furthermore, the ability of each side’s striker to convert limited chances in a game often decided by fine margins could be the defining factor. Analysts will dissect whether the teams adopt a high-press approach or look to counter-attack, adding a fascinating cerebral layer to the raw passion of the derby.
Historical Context of the Rivalry
While not as historically deep-rooted as the North London derby, the Arsenal-Chelsea clash has grown into one of the Premier League’s most significant fixtures in the 21st century. Fueled by proximity, numerous title tussles, and memorable cup final meetings, the rivalry burns intensely. Moments like the 4-1 Arsenal victory in the 2025/26 season’s earlier meeting, or classic encounters from the Wenger vs. Mourinho era, form the backdrop to this latest chapter, ensuring an edge to every contest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What time does Arsenal vs Chelsea kick off?
The match kicks off at 16:30 GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
Can I watch the game for free?
In most major territories, legal live access requires a paid subscription to the relevant broadcaster (e.g., Sky Sports, Peacock, Optus Sport). Some services may offer limited free trials.
Is the match available on radio?
Yes, in the UK, live national radio commentary will be provided by BBC Radio 5 Live. Local radio stations may also carry coverage.
Will there be a highlights show?
Yes. In the UK, “Match of the Day” on BBC One will show extended highlights. Sky Sports also airs its own highlights packages. Internationally, broadcast partners and the official Premier League YouTube channel provide highlights post-match.
What if I’m traveling abroad during the match?
Your streaming service may have geo-restrictions. Using a VPN to connect to your home country’s service might work, but this can violate terms of service. Checking the local broadcaster in your travel destination is the most reliable method.
How can I get official match tickets?
Tickets are sold almost exclusively to Arsenal members via a ballot. The only guaranteed source is the official Arsenal Football Club website. Be wary of unofficial resellers.
What’s the recent head-to-head record?
The head-to-head record is often close. Checking the Premier League’s official statistics page before the match will provide the most up-to-date form guide and historical results.
Where is the match being played?
The match will be played at Arsenal’s home ground, the Emirates Stadium in London.
Who are the key players to watch?
Key players will include the creative forces and top scorers from both squads. In-form players and any returning from injury will significantly impact the tactical setup.
What are the potential league implications?
As a derby between traditional top-four contenders, the match will almost certainly impact the race for the title, Champions League qualification, or European places, depending on both teams’ positions in late February.
Final Verdict
The Arsenal versus Chelsea derby on February 28, 2026, is a premier fixture in the global football calendar. For viewers, the path to watching is clear: domestic fans in the UK should tune to Sky Sports, while viewers in the US can access the game on USA Network and Peacock. International fans must confirm their local Premier League rights holder. Those dreaming of attending must navigate the official club channels with patience and caution against the secondary market. With high stakes, a passionate rivalry, and world-class talent on display, this is a match that demands attention. Ensuring your viewing arrangements are secure ahead of time is the best way to guarantee you experience every tackle, pass, and goal of this monumental London clash.
