It’s half time in the Chelsea – Aston Villa game at Stamford Bridge, and everything is going to plan.
The Blues made a few tweaks to their formation and their line-up for this game, and there was a sense that this was a bit of a risk given Villa have been one of the best teams in the league in the last 18 months.
But the formation shift worked perfectly – the home team are 2-0 up and looking confident. Their press is working perfectly and the attack is really clicking. It’s not been perfect – there are still the occasional mistakes at the back to keep us guessing – but so far, so good.
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Enzo hits a shot with the outside of his foot.
Enzo Maresca speaking post-game to Chelsea TV cameras.
A tactical view of Chelsea's formation.
On Sky Sports commentary, Alan Smith said that Chelsea “couldn’t have been happier” at half time, which is how we saw things.
It seems like things might not have been as happy as he assumed, however.
Enzo Fernandez celebrates his goal at Stamford Bridge.
Enzo Fernandez celebrates his goal at Stamford Bridge.
Bad blood despite the good result
The fact that the press box at Stamford Bridge is right above the tunnel and right behind the technical area has brought us tons of interesting snippets over the years – and that isn’t changing anytime soon.
Kieran Gill of the Daily Mail noted that Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was “having an argument with a member of the Aston Villa coaching contingent” as he went down the tunnel for half time.
Enzo Maresca having an argument with a member of the Aston Villa coaching contingent as he makes his way down the tunnel. Chelsea deserve their 2-0 lead
— Kieran Gill (@kierangill_DM) December 1, 2024
We’re not sure what they could be annoyed about – it was a comprehensive showing on the pitch from Chelsea. Maybe the action that injured Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez was causing some controversy? Otherwise it must have just been some touchline faux pas that we missed.
Well, at least if the performance and the results stays the same until full time, Maresca will not have much to complain about when the whistle blows.