Tottenham vs Chelsea FC: Thoughts And Prediction
By Lou Flavius
Tottenham vs Chelsea FC has always been a must-watch of a London derby, and it rarely disappoints. The Blues will travel to White Hart Lane on New Year’s Day, a ground where they did so well in the past, their fans referred to it as ‘Three Point Lane’.
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In recent times, Spurs have done much better on their home turf against Chelsea, and the three points are no longer automatic. White Hart Lane is one of the toughest grounds the Blues visit every season, and they could only nick a single point there last term. Gylfi Sigurdsson put Tottenham ahead in the first half, but John Terry’s header put Chelsea back on level terms.
The Blues were seemingly on their way to scoring a second, but Fernando Torres was unluckily shown red. Down to ten men, Jose Mourinho and his men settled for just a point.
The two teams met only a few weeks ago at Stamford Bridge, and although Tottenham started the game a lot better, the Blues cruised to a 3-0 victory — thanks to Eden hazard, Didier Drogba and Loic Remy.
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The Spurs will naturally be looking to get a bit of revenge this time around, and the 0-0 draw on Sunday vs Manchester United will serve as extra motivation to get back to winning ways. Chelsea also dropped two points when they took on Southampton at St. Mary’s, drawing 1-1, but fortunately, Burnley were able to hold Manchester City to a 2-2 draw.
Players To Watch
Christian Eriksen – Eriksen has been Spurs’ best player, he is very creative and knows how to pick a pass. He also poses great danger in front of goal, and has seven Premier League goals to his name so far this season. Chelsea will need to pay special attention to him, as he can hurt them in so many ways.
Harry Kane – A real surprise performer this season; the forward has been a real threat for Tottenham, having scored five league goals — two more than Roberto Soldado and Emmanuel Adebayor put together. The Blues will need to keep an eye on the youngster.
Nacer Chadli – One of Spurs’ better performers, Chadli has scored six and assisted three. He has been a real midfield presence this season, and is capable of outdoing any defense on a good day.
Eden Hazard – The Belgian has been in scintillating form lately, he scored his 10th goal of the season on Sunday against an outstanding Saints’ defense. Hazard poses a threat whenever he touches the ball, he tops the league with 47 chances created from open play, and has also completed 89 of 151 attempted Dribbles — ranking first in that category as well.
Cesc Fabregas – The Spaniard has been nothing short of amazing since joining Chelsea, he leads the league assists column with 13, and has also created the most chances, with 61. Tottenham will need to contain him if they are to get anything out of this game.
Diego Costa – With 13 goals from 16 league games, Costa has been exactly what the Blues needed last season, and need this season. He’s still a bit raw, and could improve on his control, but when it comes to putting the ball in the back of the net, there is not much left to be desired.
Prediction
As I mentioned earlier, things have not been great for Chelsea at White Hart lane as of late; but when was the last time the Blues had a team this good? They certainly have the firepower to get the three points, and although it will be a really tough match-up, Tottenham will go down at home this time around.