Chelsea’s Late Tactical Adjustments and Brighton’s Game Management
After conceding, Maresca adjusted Chelsea’s structure to a highly aggressive 2-2-6 or 3-1-6 shape. Gusto inverted alongside Moisés Caicedo, who occasionally dropped into the defensive line, while Cucurella advanced into the half-spaces to form a front six. Although this setup pinned Brighton deeper, Chelsea’s final-third effectiveness remained poor, as reflected by their expected goals metric.
After going a goal down, Maresca's in-possession tweak saw Chelsea playing with an aggressive structure. It resembled a 2-2-6/3-1-6 as Gusto inverted with Caicedo, who'd often drop into the defensive line. Cucurella advanced in the half-spaces to make a front 6.
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Brighton managed the closing stages of the game comfortably, with their substitutes further solidifying their defensive shape. Chelsea, on the other hand, lacked an impact player capable of changing the game’s trajectory.
Chelsea’s elimination from another domestic cup competition extends their trophy drought and raises concerns about their ability to secure a top-four Premier League finish and a UEFA Conference League triumph. For Brighton, this victory served as a strong response to their recent league disappointment.
Maresca’s team will have a chance at redemption as they face Brighton once again at the Amex in the Premier League. The upcoming fixture presents an opportunity for the Chelsea manager to demonstrate his ability to learn from previous mistakes and make the necessary tactical adjustments.