Chelsea’s Offensive Transitions and the Decisive Goal
Despite Spurs’ attempts to control possession, their poor rest-defense structure left them vulnerable. There was a lack of compactness between their center-backs and midfielders, allowing Chelsea to capitalize on offensive transitions when bypassing the initial counter-press.
The first half ended 0-0, with Chelsea creating the better chances but failing to convert. However, the breakthrough arrived early in the second half, showcasing Chelsea’s fluid movement, effective wide combinations, and counter-pressing strategy.
The first half proved to be a competitive affair with both sides having their moments. However, Chelsea were clearly the better side as they produced the better chances. They could not convert, though, leaving it at 0-0.
— Fahd (@fahdahmed987) April 4, 2025
This changed in the second half immediately. We see… pic.twitter.com/02gCT77ZWj
One notable transition saw Marc Cucurella turn over possession after an under-hit pass to Palmer. The ball quickly moved through Sancho, Caicedo, and Fernández, but Fernández picked the wrong pass, opting for Neto instead of Sancho. Neto’s cross to the back post didn’t lead to anything significant.
Later in the game, Spurs nearly equalized from a similar sequence. A turnover in Spurs’ half led to a rapid transition, ending with Son meeting a cross in a dangerous area. However, Sánchez made a superb save to preserve Chelsea’s lead.
Here's one that Spurs almost levelled the score late in the game from. It was a possession turnover in Spurs' half that smoothly transitioned to a dangerous attacking move. It ended with Son meeting a cross at a very threatening area, but Sanchez's superman save denied the goal. pic.twitter.com/GTdObZgMSc
— Fahd (@fahdahmed987) April 4, 2025