After Jose Mourinho’ comments last week about how he didn’t enjoy West Ham’s negative tactics against them, there was pressure on the Portuguese coach to come up with a master plan against the free-flowing Manchester City side who were looking to go back top of the Premier League.
He managed to do just that, as the Blues ran out 1-0 winners in what was a perfect outing for those associated with the west London club.
For me, the game was won in midfield. With Fernandinho missing out for City, it allowed Nemanja Matic – who was making his first step for the club since his return last month, to run the show alongside David Luiz, who put in a mature display.
Despite being up against Yaya Toure, Matic dwarfed the Ivorian in terms of performance and got the better of him in a couple of individual battles.
The Serb is not the most fashionable of players but he picked away at the City players and made life difficult for them throughout the game. He attempted nine tackles, made two interceptions and was on hand to make 11 clearances – eight of which came deep inside his own half.
He also looked impressive going forward, moving the ball quickly and striking the bar with his only shot of the game.
Mourinho and the Chelsea fans have every right to be thrilled with his performance.
City fan here.
Regardless of being a City fan, as a footie fan, the way Mourinho set you up last night was a delight to see.
It showed that regardless of how good the opposition, if you set up correctly and the players stick to the plan, you have a good chance of winning.
Your midfield stifled City, they pressed and pushed us back and City didn't like it. Not seen City look so edgy for a long time.
As the ball moved across the midfield, the Chelsea player in that zone pushed up and then moved back when the danger was averted. They kept their shape all night.
Our strikers didn't get a sniff all game, Cech didn't have a real shot to save, bar the Silva free-kick. Terry's and Cahill's shirts didn't really need washing I suspect as your midfield worked its socks off.
Regardless of the team you support, that was a tactical masterclass.
So whilst my team lost, as a football fan, it was great to watch.
Matic was amazing and his performance has rightfully been singled out in the press, with notable mentions for Hazard, Terry, Cahill, Brana, Willian and others. In other words it was a great team performance.
I am a bit surprised that no one seems to have picked up on the performance of David Luis. Ok, his free kicks weren't great, but his discipline, positioning and work rate seem to have been overlooked. Much better performance than any of his previous displays in the midfield, especially those under the guidance of the FSW.
Just my opinion.
I really enjoyed the overall performance of Chelsea, it was a pleasure to be a supporter. Every player did a great job and Jose should feel very proud of the way he set the team up. Just one point though to Jose, I still believe Luiz is real find as a midfielder and have thought so since his early days with us. I know the Brazil team use him as a centre back but what do they know????? !!
Excellent performance from chelsea. UP blues. Matic was excellent
fae rtewt weatewtea
Thank you for sharing, I love Manchester City and support My team 🙂