After a 2-0 loss to Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspurs gap to the top four was increased to six points, making this match a must win to avoid the gap increasing to a potential nine points. Brighton and Hove Albion had not won since their unexpected win over Arsenal, with draws to Wolverhampton Wanderers and Crystal Palace and a loss at the hands of Sheffield United preceding their trip to Tottenham.
Since being appointed, José Mourinho has completely turned around Tottenhams form, but with losses to Manchester United and Chelsea keeping the Lily Whites out of the UEFA Champions League places.
Graham Potter has completely revitalised Brightons style of play, but with recent results putting them just two points off of the relegation zone, the same gap that resulted in the sacking of former Tottenham player and coach Chris Hughton.
In this tactical analysis, Ill take a look at the tactics that Mourinho used to outwit Graham Potter to help Tottenham Hotspur defeat Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League.
Lineups
Mourinho strayed away from the 4-2-3-1 shape hes been using so far during his tenure at Tottenham, this time choosing a 3-4-2-1, which could still emulate the 3-2-4-1 shape used in offensive organisation while providing additional defensive solidity by having Sessegnon in place of Son Heung-Min who was serving a suspension after receiving a straight red card against Chelsea. Paulo Gazzaniga deputised for the injured Hugo Lloris in goal, protected by a back 3/5 of Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld, Davinson Sánchez, Ryan Sessegnon, and Serge Aurier. Moussa Sissoko and Harry Winks started as a double pivot, while Dele Alli and Lucas Moura Played just in behind Harry Kane.
Potter fielded Brighton in a 3-4-2-1. Potter chose this formation to directly match up against Tottenhams offensive formation. Potter chose to rotate his side heavily, looking to the important six-pointer against Bournemouth just two days later. Matthew Ryan played in goal behind a back 3/5 of Bernardo, Dan Burn, Shane Duffy, Adam Webster, and Ezequiel Schelotto.
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