Chelsea vs Southampton: Tactical Analysis & Match Report (4-0)

Sometimes in a season, a team just needs to collect three points against any opponent to stabilize. In rough patches of form, defeating any team can provide temporary relief before tougher challenges lie ahead. That was exactly what Enzo Maresca was hoping for when Chelsea faced Southampton on Wednesday night.

With a much-needed 4-0 win, Chelsea found respite and gained a crucial boost in the Premier League standings. Let’s delve into the tactical nuances of this dominant victory, analyzing both Chelsea’s approach and Southampton’s defensive structure.

Chelsea’s In-Possession Structure

Chelsea’s dominance in possession was expected, and from the outset, they controlled the tempo of the game. Maresca’s tactical setup was similar to the one used against Aston Villa, with a few notable adjustments in personnel.

Maresca deployed a 3-2-5 shape, but with key changes. Rather than Reece James operating as a central midfielder alongside Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella inverted from left-back to form part of the back three. On the right side of the defense, Malo Gusto operated as a wide center-back, providing width and defensive solidity.

Higher up the pitch, Jadon Sancho held the width on the right, offering a more direct 1v1 threat compared to the advanced fullbacks Chelsea had utilized in previous matches. On the opposite flank, Christopher Nkunku operated as the left-winger. In the half-spaces, we saw Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer pairing up once again, creating fluidity in midfield. Pedro Neto played as the central striker, a role that proved effective both in and out of possession.