1. Defensive masterclass
Chelsea have been incredible defensively this season. They have let up just ten goals in 13 matches and just four of them at Stamford Bridge. From October 1st to November 20th, they recorded six clean sheets in six straight matches against the likes of Manchester United and Leicester City.
Part of this is due to how disciplined the team is when they are defending. Playing a back three in the Premier League seems almost suicidal, but Chelsea have been able to pull it off in miraculous fashion. David Luiz and Gary Cahill back each other up very well in the defensive third. With N’Golo Kante and Nemanja Matic sitting as the two midfielders in front of them, it is extremely difficult to break down Chelsea going forward.
With both wingers Hazard and Moses constantly tracking back, Manchester City will have a very tough time going forward throughout the match. They depend very heavily on Kevin De Bruyne to dictate play and play the ball in behind.
Locking him down will be a key battle that Kante in particular will look to win. Keeping the supply to Sergio Aguero to a minimum should make winning the match a much more feasible task.