Eden Hazard between the lines a key tactic for Chelsea ahead of Liverpool clash

Brendon Netto 17:46 28/09/2018
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  • Following an entertaining encounter in the Carabao Cup third round, fans will be treated to another clash between Chelsea and Liverpool, this time at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League, on Saturday.

    The Blues emerged with a 2-1 victory to dump Jurgen Klopp’s side out of the domestic competition with Eden Hazard taking the plaudits after an incredible winning goal at Anfield.

    Here, we look at the key tactics Maurizio Sarri could employ to get the better of Klopp again.

    Check out Liverpool’s key tactics here.

    PASSING THROUGH THE PRESS

    Liverpool’s style of play is built on the foundation laid by Klopp’s gegenpressing strategy.

    Winning the ball high up the pitch and attacking in the transition is key, but Sarri’s philosophy is in direct opposition to that. He insists his that his teams play out from the back.

    The two centre-backs split wide, allowing Jorginho (or Cesc Fabregas in midweek) to drop deep and receive the ball. Meanwhile, the full-backs position themselves higher up in their own half and hug the touchline. This creates three triangles for passing options usually conducted by the defensive midfielder.

    When executed correctly, it can break through Liverpool’s two lines of pressing and giving them a clear run at their defence.

    HAZARD MOVES INSIDE

    With Liverpool focused on working hard to prevent Chelsea from passing their way through their pressing game, a vast space opens up between their midfield and defence.

    That’s precisely what happened in the second half of the Carabao Cup clash which prompted Sarri to introduce Eden Hazard.

    The Belgian had a field day with the space he was afforded when drifting in from the left and receiving the ball between the lines. His phenomenal dribbling and close control saw him wreak havoc, scoring a sensational winner at the end of a mazy run.

    Getting the ball to him is a challenge when Liverpool press with intensity. But if one of the midfielders can thread a ball through to him or find him with a lobbed pass, he can take care of the rest.

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