Manchester City maintained their unbeaten record so far this campaign as they returned with maximum points from Stamford Bridge, the home of the Champions.
City dominated proceedings for the most part of the game but they needed a moment of brilliance from Kevin De Bruyne to show a tangible result from their performance.
Here are the key talking points from the match-up
1) City are on their way to the title
If City continue in this manner there is very little anyone could do to stop them. Pep Guardiola’s men are dominating teams and scoring goals for fun. There were worries about defence but clean sheets against Liverpool and Chelsea mean that they are improving in that department as well. Guardiola has got his tactics absolutely spot on so far and it will take some doing to undo his side this season.
2) Chelsea need a Plan ‘B’ to Morata
Chelsea started where they left the game against Atletico with Hazard and Morata combining extremely well and taking the game to City. But after Morata pulled his hamstring, Chelsea did not have an outlet. It was probably one of the only time Conte made a poor substitution as well getting Willian on rather than Michy Batshuayi. Chelsea did not manage to sign Fernando Llorente but come January they will have to sign a strong forward who can be an able backup to Morata.
3) Kevin De Bruyne masterclass
The Belgian is pulling ever so close to being called the Best Belgian in the Premier League after yet another scintillating showing. His stunner in the midweek was well backed with yet another long-ranger which was beyond saving for any keeper in the world. Exciting times for City with him at the helm.
4) Tactics not up to the mark
Chelsea played a 3-5-2 away against Atletico Madrid and it worked wonders for them but against City, it invited pressure against them. They sat back too deep and City’s vast array of attackers took cognizance of the fact and troubled the Chelsea defence keeping them on the backfoot for most periods. Pedro starting ahead of Fabregas could have provided good width for Chelsea to attack City’s makeshift full-back, Fabian Delph.
5) Best game of the season so far
The game was a tactical showdown between Antonio Conte and Pep Guardiola and it lived up to all the hype it created. City dominated possession, Chelsea defended resolutely and the game was played more in the heads of the players than on the field. Morata’s injury took Chelsea’s outlet away as they do not have the luxury that City do as Jesus played impressively in Aguero’s absence. It will be an intriguing battle when these two meet for the reverse fixture as Conte will be itching to avenge the loss.
