Crystal Palace VS Chelsea: Match Review

Chelsea locked horns against Crystal Palace in game week 20 of the English Premier League. The much-anticipated game, which was hosted by Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, started with both teams trying to make a mark. Chelsea FC, who were fourth in the league, had not registered a win in their last four games. Also, the host Crystal Palace who was in the relegation zone but is now out after today’s game with Chelsea. Chelsea had lost their key player Mudryk prior to this game after testing positive for a doping test. Also, the host Crystal Palace was seen losing five players in today’s squad they used to face Chelsea, one of these players being the coach’s decision.

Lineup

Starting with the home side Crystal Palace, head coach Olie Glasner started today’s game with a 3-4-3 formation with starting players, which include Hederson as the goalkeeper  Richards, Lacorix, and Guehi as the three center backs. Munoz and  and Mitchell wingbacks and Doucoure and Lerma as the midfielders. Attackers were Sarr, Eze, and Mateta. Continuing with Chelsea, Enzo Maresca opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation. Robert Sanchez in the post. Colwill and Acheampong as CBs. Gusto and  Cucurella as fullbacks. Caicedo and Fernandez as DMs, Sancho, Palmer, Neto, and Jackson up front.

Tactical Analysis

The game today was seen with a lot of intense pressure from both ends. Chelsea started this game as the favorite and was seen scoring the first goal through Cole Palmer after a pass from Jadon Sancho. In the beginning of the second half, Crystal Palace was seen using the tactics deployed by their head coach. Palace intended to use the wingback system and was operating down the left flank, creating numerous chances but to no avail. A brilliant play from the middle of the pitch saw Eze receiving a pass, which he then laid down to Mateta, and he scored their only goal in the game.

Chelsea did all they could but could not find that winning goal to secure them the maximum three points they needed. After today’s game, Chelsea is now in 4th position with 36 points, and Palace is in 15th position with 21 points, both after 20 games played. Chelsea will be facing in-form Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge in gameweek 21, the same as Crystal Palace will be facing Leicester City away.