In the blockbuster game of the weekend, Liverpool welcomed Premier League Champions Chelsea to the fortress Anfield. The two top teams gave us an enthralling encounter, as goals from Mohammed Salah & Willian evenly shared the spoils. The 1-1 draw means Liverpool are now unbeaten against Chelsea in their past six meetings. The draw leaves Liverpool in 5th place, 3 points behind 3rd placed Chelsea. However, the duo are now 11 and 8 points behind Manchester City respectively.
Here’re the key battles Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea.
1Davide Zappacosta vs. Alberto Moreno
The Italian was known as the most prolific crosser in Serie A last season. His work rate and technical traits are perfect for the RWB role, and Antonio Conte has subsequently made him a pivotal part of Chelsea’s build-up play. Contrast this suitability to the irregular Alberto Moreno and you have a key tactical battle.
Alberto Moreno’s positioning and irrational decision-making have always made him a target at LB for all teams. But against Chelsea, Moreno put in a performance of the highest order. Although Zappacosta completed 3 dribbles and created 2 chances, Moreno made 8 tackles and intercepted 2 passes. His diligence forced Chelsea to go inwards and eventually lose the ball.
The fact that Chelsea couldn’t dominate down the right-hand side like they usually do, severely hampered their progression up the pitch. And with Cesc Fàbregas not starting the match, the Blues had no one to control the game from the middle.
