Tottenham vs Chelsea: Where the game could be won or lost

Tottenham will host Chelsea on Saturday evening in the standout fixture of gameweek 13. Here is where the game could be won or lost.

Where Tottenham can capitalize

Tottenham’s not so secret weapon for this one is Dele Alli. The attacker has an uncanny ability to manipulate space in the final third and you need concentration levels of a Carthusian monk to combat his runs between the lines – a worrying proposition for the current Chelsea back line.

Dele’s adroitness and savvy were on full display as his brace gave Tottenham all the points back in 2017. The young lion ghosted between Cesar Azpilicueta and Victor Moses to head Spurs in front. Ten minutes later, he again latched onto a Christian Eriksen cross in what was almost like an action replay.

The last time the side’s met, Dele snuck between the centre half and Azpilicueta before a deft touch and finish put Spurs ahead. And, most pertinently, the number 20 found space between Azpilicueta, again, and David Luiz to convert a delectable Eriksen through ball in an 2017 FA Cup encounter.

Dele has already given Azpilicueta numerous sleepless nights and the Spaniard has looked less assured lately than in previous seasons. David Luiz’s tendency to zone out at inopportune moments is also a concern for the visitors.

The springy haired Brazilian was caught in no mans land for Anthony Martial’s second at The Bridge and went walkabouts versus Crystal Palace allowing Andros Townsend to grab an equalizer.

Dele has looked full of endeavor since returning from injury. He could slip into Mordor undetected and will fancy his chances of bespattering Maurizio Sarri’s loss column with its first indelible mark in England.

Poch will have to asses his side after the international break to see who will start alongside him. A zealous attack line capable of stifling Chelsea’s buildup play and launching quick counter attacks will be paramount to the side’s chances of success.

Where Tottenham must be careful

Tottenham’s biggest concern will be at the opposite corner of the field. Although Eden Hazard hasn’t returned to the heights he soared at earlier in the season, he will occupy a vulnerable area of the pitch for Spurs.

Tottenham’s xG against has grown exponentially since about last April and the majority of these chances have arisen from the right side of defense. Add the threat of Marcos Alonso marauding forward and Spurs could have a real problem.

However, Trippier is a doubt for the fixture and starting Serge Aurier may be in Spurs best interests. The ex-PSG man is more positionally astute and should be full of confidence after scoring for the Ivory Coast last weekend. Moussa Sissoko may be favored up ahead to add cover.

Meanwhile, Spurs have leaked far too many goals from set pieces this season – an area Chelsea could ruthlessly exploit. After Antonio Rudiger’s bullet against Manchester United last month, The Blues had scored more headed goals (18) than any other side since the beginning of last season.

Luiz arrived like Tarzan on a vine to head one down and inadvertently set up the equalizer right at the death of the same game; and if Chelsea pile bodies forward they will really test Tottenham’s mettle. Davison Sanchez will likely return to partner Toby Alderweireld in the center due to the combative Colombian’s aerial prowess.

How do you think this one will end?