On Boxing Day, Arsenal has manipulated the London clash with Chelsea. The Gunners won 3-1 and can breathe more freely again. For the ambitious Chelsea, the defeat is a big blow.
Arsenal had slipped further and further in the standings in recent weeks and with Chelsea a tough opponent presented itself on Boxing Day. The Gunners opened well, but Chelsea soon took command.
That resulted in a free kick from Mount licking the outside of the post. That was Chelsea’s best chance, as the visitors’ momentum disappeared as quickly as it had come.
Halfway through the 1st half, Arsenal found new impetus and ten minutes later Lacazette also put the 1-0 on the board. The Frenchman cashed in a penalty after a stupid foul by James.
Double lead at half time
Anyone who expected a reaction from Chelsea after the opening goal, remained hungry. Without the injured Ziyech, the visitors played football without inspiration, attacker Werner was lost in the striker.
In addition, Arsenal scored a second time before half-time. Granit Xhaka, available again after a suspension, brushed a free kick in the top corner beyond Mendy’s reach.
No improvement at Chelsea
Chelsea coach Frank Lampard intervened at half time and kept Kovacic and the pale Werner in the dressing room. Substitute Hudson-Odoi did pose more threat, although it was Arsenal that scored again.
Saka himself will have to tell whether it was a cross or a deliberate shot, but the shot from the young Englishman went into goal very nicely.
Only in the final quarter did Chelsea manage to put some better football on the mat, also because Arsenal fourth the reins. Abraham’s 3-1 was approved by the VAR, but the 3-2 that could have made the end exciting, did not come anymore. Leno stopped a penalty from Jorginho.
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