It was hot from the temperature, hot between the benches, hot on the field and hot between the spectators – everything you want and hope for in a match like this early in the season, said Thomas Tuchel, after watching his side concede a 95th-minute equaliser and drop two valuable points.
The two teams produced a London derby to remember, an instant classic at the Bridge. In many ways, it was the perfect game to celebrate the Premier Leagues 30th anniversary; goals, drama and controversy.
On the pitch, the football on display was of the highest quality. It showcased the level of the Premier League at this moment in time, with two of the worlds best managers going blow for blow on the pitch and off it.
From a tactical point of view, it was fascinating to watch the gameplans and in-game tweaks and adjustments adopted by both sets of teams and managers. Chelsea were the better side for the most part, as Tuchel got the better of Antonio Conte, twice.
This tactical analysis will look at the tactics of Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur during Sundays clash. The analysis highlights how the teams were initially set up along with the mid-game changes and reactions from both sets of managers.
Lineups
On paper, Chelsea played in a 3-5-2 formation that we have become accustomed to under the German manager. There were two changes from the opening day win at Everton. Ruben Loftus-Cheek came in for captain Cesar Azpilicueta and Marc Cucurella replaced Ben Chilwell at left-back to mark his full debut in a Chelsea shirt.
Spurs were unchanged from last weekends 4-1 victory over Southampton. Emerson Royal and Ryan Sessegnon kept their places in the wingback positions. New signings Richarlison, Yves Bissouma and Ivan Perišić started on the bench. The familiar trio of Dejan Kulusevski, Son Heung-min and Harry Kane lead the line for Contes side.
