3 things that Conte learned from Chelsea’s victory over Tottenham
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On a tough night in South West London – it was Chelsea that came out on top…
As with most London derbies, it was a tight and fiery affair at Stamford Bridge, though notably it did lack the animosity of the same fixture last season.
That is to be expected, however, given that the game had significantly less riding on it – at least from a Tottenham perspective.
For Chelsea, the game saw Antonio Conte’s men remain at the top of the Premier League table, with a 2nd half Victor Moses goal sealing the points.
In the context of the season, the game could prove crucial – especially with a tough test against Man City coming up next weekend.
The game, like many before it, will have taught Conte a lesson or two about his team – and he will no doubt be at Cobham this week feeling very happy.
With that said, here are 3 things that Conte learned from Chelsea’s victory over Tottenham
League Status
It was a surprise when Chelsea topped the table last week – but now the possibility of the Blues remaining there is beginning to look like a very real prospect.
Antonio Conte’s men are on a roll, and have now defeataed two clubs that will expect to be up near the top of the table at the end of the season in Tottenham and Man Utd.
A tough test against Man City awaits, of course, but for now – Antonio Conte can revel in the fact that Chelsea are top of the table, and the fact that they look very good value to remain there from here on out.
Diego Costa
How good is Diego Costa?
He didn’t pop up with a goal, as he so often has this season, but don’t tackle anything away from him – it was another masterclass of a performance from the Spaniard.
Costa showed another dimension of his game on Saturday, displaying his ability to hold up and progress play when away from the goal – and that will be crucial as teams begin to figure out Chelsea’s play style.
His performance deserved a goal, but Conte won’t be worried. A wonderful performance again from Chelsea’s player of the year so far.
Tottenham Title Challenge
These lists often focus heavily upon Chelsea – but let’s take a moment to consider Tottenham.
The Lilywhites started the season fantastically, but Chelsea have now ended their unbeaten run – and in truth, they don’t really look likely to pose a significant title threat this season.
They didn’t look poor by any means, but Chelsea looked a cut above them; and the Premier League table will likely reflect that come the end of the season.
If Tottenham can turn their form around then they still have a chance, and it would be foolish to write them off so early – but at present, they don’t look particularly threatening.