Sabasports
Match Preview
Premier
League: Chelsea vs Arsenal
Kickoff
Time: 2023-10-22 00:30 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/DAVID
KLEIN
It
appears that Chelsea have faced some challenges during the season, particularly
in terms of converting their possession and passing success into goals. Despite
maintaining high ball possession rates (averaging 64% per game) and a high
passing success rate (89%), Chelsea struggled to score goals in the league
throughout September. Under Coach Mauricio Pochettino, they have focused on
securing possession and looking for scoring opportunities. In response to this
goal-scoring drought, Pochettino made changes in October by adjusting their
formation from 4-2-3-1 to 4-3-3. This shift aimed to increase their attacking
threat by utilising young players, seeking breakthrough moments, and taking
decisive shots when openings arise. As a result, their passing success rate may
have slightly decreased, but the shot conversion rate and the number of forward
passes covering a significant distance have increased. These adjustments and
the emphasis on a more aggressive and direct approach have paid off for
Chelsea, as they managed to break the deadlock and secure two consecutive
league victories.
Source:REUTERS/ANDREW
COULDRIDGE
Arsenal
have recently achieved significant victories over Manchester United and
Manchester City, establishing themselves as strong contenders for the
championship. Their undefeated record in the league has boosted their
confidence. However, at the beginning of the season, there were some
questionable decisions made by Coach Mikel Arteta, such as placing midfielder
Thomas Partey as a right back and the underwhelming performance of newly signed
Kai Havertz. Fortunately, Arsenal have made adjustments and “corrected
their ways.” One notable change this season is their increased emphasis on
playing passes along the ground. This strategy aims to draw the opponent’s
midfielders out of their defensive positions, creating opportunities for sudden
changes in direction and penetrating attacks. This approach provides a sense of
hierarchy to their offense. In recent matches, it has been evident that when
transitioning from defence to offense, both Thomas and Havertz have provided
immediate support and coordination. They have found a way to coexist
effectively, contributing to Arsenal’s improved performances.
While
both teams possess talented players, Arsenal seems to have better cohesion
within their squad. On the other hand, Chelsea are known for their young
players who exhibit strong impact but may struggle in seizing opportunities. In
this home game, the players can sometimes get carried away with offensive play,
losing their positional discipline due to the encouragement from the fans in
the stadium. Taking all these factors into account, it is believed that Arsenal
have a better opportunity to secure all three points in the match.
Chelsea’s
Last 5 Games: WWWLD
23-10-07
Burnley 1-4 Chelsea
23-10-03
Fulham 0-2 Chelsea
23-09-28
Chelsea 1-0 Brighton
23-09-24
Chelsea 0-1 Aston Villa
23-09-17
Bournemouth 0-0 Chelsea
Arsenal’s
Last 5 Games: WLWWD
23-10-08
Arsenal 1-0 Manchester City
23-10-04
Lens 2-1 Arsenal
23-09-30
Bournemouth 0-4 Arsenal
23-09-28
Brentford 0-1 Arsenal
23-09-24
Arsenal 2-2 Tottenham
Head
To Head Record:
23-05-03
Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea
22-11-06
Chelsea 0-1 Arsenal
22-07-04
Arsenal 4-0 Chelsea
22-04-21
Chelsea 2-4 Arsenal
21-08-22
Arsenal 0-2 Chelsea
Prediction: Arsenal to win