Premier League 2019/20: Leicester vs Brighton – tactical analysis

In this Premier League matchup, Brighton travelled to Leicester, both of whom experienced injury-time drama in their previous fixtures.

Brighton stole a victory against Arsenal, moving the South Coast club onto 32 points, further away from the relegation zone. Leicester were on the receiving end of the drama, conceding a late equaliser at vicarage road, bringing unwanted attention from the chasing Champions League hopefuls.

In this fixture, however, it was clear the drama had run out as both sides battled it out in an underwhelming goalless draw, achieving a combined an xG of just 1.97. In this tactical analysis, we look at the tactics used by both sides, discussing why the game ended goalless.

Lineups

The home side lined up in an unfamiliar 4-4-2 system. James Justin continued his string of appearances as a right full-back, as Ricardo Pereira remains injured. Chelsea target Ben Chilwell occupied the left flank as the pair were given license to advance by the use of a double pivot. This was made up of Nampalys Mendy and Wilfred Ndidi, as the pair started their first game together under Brendan Rogers. Jamie Vardy and Kelechi Iheanacho partnered upfront for the foxes, with the English striker still looking for his 100th Premier League goal.

The visitors true to form, matched Leicester in their usual 4-4-2 system, a shape theyve used 25.2% of the time this season. Youngster, Tariq Lamptey started as the right full-back, where he was impressive in moving forward to support Aaron Mooy on the right flank. Dale Stephens and Yves Bissouma were given the job of marshalling in a central midfield role. The pair remained deep, reducing the space between the lines in order to protect their centre-backs. Aaron Connolly and Neal Maupay paired upfront for the Seagulls, rotating between dropping off and running in behind to stretch the Leicester centre-backs.

Fleeting foxes

In the early stages, the game was played at a good tempo, with both sides competing for the ball all over the pitch. Once the initial enthusiasm wore off, the game fell into its natural pattern. This centred around Leicester controlling the football. The Foxes dominated possession, averaging 62% across the 90 minutes.

In posse