Robert Sanchez, Chelsea’s goalkeeper, didn’t explicitly admit that Chelsea struggled to play through Crystal Palace’s midfield. However, match reports suggest that Chelsea indeed faced difficulties breaking down Palace’s defense. In the 0-0 draw between Chelsea and Crystal Palace, Chelsea dominated possession with 71% but struggled to create clear-cut chances ¹.

Key Challenges Faced by Chelsea

– Lack of Creativity: Chelsea’s attacking players, such as Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro, were closely marked by Palace defenders, limiting their creative spark.
– Inability to Break Through: Palace’s midfield and defense worked well together to block Chelsea’s attacks, making it hard for them to play through.
– Poor Finishing: Chelsea’s substitutes, including Liam Delap and Andrey Santos, had opportunities to score but failed to capitalize on them ² ³.

Crystal Palace’s Strategy

– Solid Defense: Palace’s defense, marshaled by Marc Guehi and Maxence Lacroix, was solid and well-organized, limiting Chelsea’s scoring opportunities.
– Quick Counterattacks: Palace looked threatening on the counterattack, with players like Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr causing problems for Chelsea’s defense.
– Effective Use of Set Pieces: Palace’s Eberechi Eze had a goal disallowed for a technical foul, highlighting the attention to detail in Palace’s set-piece strategy ³.

Chelsea’s Player Performances

– Moises Caicedo: The Ecuadorian midfielder was impressive, taking control of Chelsea’s midfield and making crucial interceptions.
– Enzo Fernandez: The Argentine midfielder struggled to make an impact, losing several 50-50 balls and allowing Palace players to run through him.
– Estevao Willian: The 18-year-old Brazilian winger injected energy and urgency into Chelsea’s attack after coming on as a substitute ².