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If Wednesday’s game was any indication, the two upcoming League Cup semifinal legs between Chelsea and Arsenal are going to be rather scintillating affairs. For the neutral viewer, that is. Probably not for any fans or coaches however.
Conte: 'This was an exciting game for the people that watched. Less for us because when you are winning 2-1 and there are two minutes to go I think you have to win.' #ARSCHE
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 3, 2018
It did look like Chelsea would come from behind to win 2-1 at the Emirates, but Hector Bellerin, who gave away the penalty for Chelsea’s equalizer, equalized for the hosts in added-on time. The match never quite settled down into either side exerting control, so it was always going to be a crapshoot whether Chelsea would be able to hang on. Unfortunately we did not, though Conte was quick to deflect any thoughts of anger into thoughts of disappointment instead.
Conte: 'I'm not angry. I know my players have a lot of disappointment. We win together and lose together. My feeling is the same as my players.' #ARSCHE
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 3, 2018
Conte: 'It was a good performance. We played with a good intensity, like Arsenal. But we must be a bit disappointed with the final result.' #ARSCHE
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 3, 2018
A good performance and plenty of chances created, but without the matching reward. Alvaro Morata unfortunately continued his poor run of form, which unlike against Stoke, actually mattered today.
When I asked Conte if he was worried about Morata's 1v1 finishing after the Stoke game, he said he'd be more concerned if his striker wasn't finding the positions. Then & tonight, though, his excellent movement is only highlighting the problem #cfc
— Liam Twomey (@liam_twomey) January 3, 2018
But Conte, as he’s wont to do, quickly put a positive spin on Morata’s continuing foibles, too.
Conte to Sky on Morata: "He’s not lucky in this period, but he has to continue to work and to improve. For the striker it’s very important to score. In this case it’s a pity because he had many chances, but I’m very happy for his effort and commitment to the team." #cfc
— Liam Twomey (@liam_twomey) January 3, 2018
Finishing can be streaky for even the best strikers, so hopefully Morata quickly finds his form once again.
xG map for Arsenal - Chelsea. The finishing pixie decided to have some fun with Alvaro Morata. pic.twitter.com/INgdZw6IOv
— Caley Graphics (@Caley_graphics) January 3, 2018
Onto the next one!