Chelsea Vs Arsenal [1–1] – Premier League 2025/2026: How 10-Man Chelsea Shut Down The League Leaders – Tactical Analysis

Second-placed Chelsea held league leaders Arsenal to a 1-1 draw in Gameweek 12 of the 2025/2026 Premier League season.

The Gunners would be disappointed with a draw, as the hosts went down to 10 men only 38 minutes into the game.

The remainder of the game was a great example of Chelsea’s game management as they held on for the draw.

With Manchester City beating Leeds United, the gap to the top is closed to five points now, as Pep Guardiola’s side are now in second with 25 points.

This puts an interesting spin on the title race and also signals that it is possible to win points from the mighty Arsenal.

Through this tactical analysis, we will examine how Chelsea managed to stay in the game after their red card.

Chelsea Vs Arsenal Lineups & Formations

Lets look at how Enzo Maresca and Mikel Arteta fielded their squads.

The hosts, Chelsea, played in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Robert Sánchez started in goal, behind a back four of Malo Gusto (right-back), Wesley Fofana (right centre-back), Trevoh Chalobah (left centre-back), and Marc Cucurella (left-back).

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