Within the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final in opposition to Middlesbrough, Chelsea did not convert their dominance into objectives, in keeping with head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Regardless of scoring seven objectives of their earlier two matches in opposition to Luton City and Preston North Finish, the Blues squandered quite a few probabilities within the first half on the Riverside Stadium.
Cole Palmer was notably responsible of lacking alternatives, whereas Hayden Hackney’s profitable objective added to Chelsea’s frustration.
Though Chelsea dominated the second half and desperately looked for an equalizer, they struggled to create clear-cut probabilities. Boro’s resolute protection held agency, securing a well-known victory.
Now, Chelsea should wait for 2 weeks earlier than they’ve the prospect to overturn the 1-0 deficit at Stamford Bridge. Nevertheless, their instant focus is on a Premier League recreation in opposition to Fulham on Saturday.
Talking to Sky Sports activities after the match, Pochettino expressed his disappointment over the missed alternatives however selected to take care of a optimistic outlook.
Regardless of controlling possession for big durations, Chelsea’s lack of ability to transform probabilities value them dearly.
The coach mentioned, “Today, our pressure and intensity were good. We made some mistakes in the first half and gave them scoring chances. They were aggressive and tough to break down, playing on the counter-attack and in a deep defensive block. We had plenty of chances to score but failed to convert. That’s football. We are disappointed, but it’s only the first half of the tie. We need to stay positive.”
Pochettino emphasised that Chelsea created extra probabilities and had clearer alternatives than their opponents.
Nevertheless, their lack of scientific ending has been a recurring drawback all through the season. Whereas they generate ample probabilities, the staff struggles to transform them into objectives, leading to missed victories.
Following the West London derby in opposition to Fulham, Chelsea will take pleasure in a 10-day break earlier than going through Middlesbrough within the reverse fixture on January 23.
This break offers them with a chance to regroup and work on their ending to make sure they’ll flip the tie round.
Because the second leg approaches, Pochettino encourages his staff to stay targeted and keep an attacking mindset.
Chelsea’s capacity to create probabilities is a optimistic facet, however they have to enhance their ending to safe victories. With an absence of objectives hindering their success, the staff should capitalize on their alternatives in future matches.