How Ancelotti’s Everton Eliminated Spurs in a 9-goal Cup Classic

In the Premier League this season, both Everton and Tottenham have registered themselves into contention for Europa League qualification for next season, with the sides currently sitting 7^th and 8^th respectively, as of writing. Jose Mourinho’s tactics have drawn some criticism lately due to their defensive nature, while Carlo Ancelotti seems to have rejuvenated Everton, who finally look like a force to be taken more seriously, with star players in several areas of the pitch.

This game looked like an interesting one before it even kicked off, but not many would’ve predicted a 9-goal thriller to occur. There is a lot to unpack in this historic game, so in this tactical analysis, we will take a look at three key areas: how Tottenham approached the early stages of the game to take the lead, and how Everton’s pressing caused problems for the visitors. We will also analyse how Everton were the ones to prevail and continue their FA Cup journey.

Lineups

Hosts Everton deployed a 4-2-3-1 with on-form striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who now has 18 goals in all competitions this season, which has seen him earn contention for a spot in the England squad, lead the line. Alex Iwobi and Richarlison provided support from the wide areas, while the central three consisted of Gylfi Sigurdsson who played in front of Abdoulaye Doucouré and Tom Davies. The Toffees’ back four consisted of Ben Godfrey, Lucas Digne, Michael Keane, and Yerry Mina. Robin Olsen continued his role between the sticks due to the absence of Jordan Pickford.

Mourinho set his Spurs side up in a similar formation, with Heung-min Son playing as the striker due to Harry Kane starting on the bench. Lucas Moura took up an attacking midfield role to support Son, with Erik Lamela and Steven Bergwijn attacking the wide areas. Tanguy Ndombele paired up with Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg – both have been impressive for Spurs of late. The back four pretty much picks itself for Tottenham at the moment, as does the goalkeeper slot.