In a tightly contested affair, Crystal Palace and Chelsea battled to a 1-1 draw in Matchweek 20. Early energy and pressing defined both teams’ approach, but neither could fully assert dominance. Cole Palmer’s 14th-minute strike gave Chelsea the lead, but Jean-Philippe Mateta equalized in the 81st minute to ensure a share of the spoils. Both teams displayed moments of brilliance and frustration in a game where clinical finishing proved the difference between what was and what could have been.

Key Stats Breakdown

Chelsea enjoyed the lion’s share of possession (65%) and created an xG of 1.66 from 13 shots, converting one of their three on-target efforts. Crystal Palace, with 12 shots and an xG of 1.06, were more economical in front of goal, netting their single on-target chance.

Chelsea’s 28 dribbles and 26 touches in the opponent’s box showcased their attacking intent, while Palace relied on a resilient backline and counter-attacks, registering 19 touches in Chelsea’s box.

Momentum Shifts

The match momentum graph reveals Chelsea’s early dominance, culminating in Palmer’s opener. However, as the game progressed, Palace clawed their way back into contention, spurred by their home crowd. Mateta’s equalizer came during a phase where Palace had steadily built attacking momentum, keeping Chelsea on the back foot.

Shots and Goals

Chelsea’s shot map highlights their frustration in front of goal, with 12 efforts off-target and just one hitting the back of the net. Palmer’s finish was a moment of composure in an otherwise erratic attacking display.

Palace, on the other hand, made the most of their limited opportunities. Mateta’s equalizer was a classic poacher’s effort, taking advantage of Chelsea’s lapse in concentration.

Possession Tactics

Chelsea’s pass map illustrates their reliance on short, intricate passes in central areas, with Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández dictating play. Wide players like Marc Cucurella and Malo Gusto provided overlapping support, but the lack of penetration in the final third hindered Chelsea’s attack.

Crystal Palace’s pass map highlights a contrasting approach, with vertical passes from Doucouré and Lerma sparking quick transitions. Eberechi Eze was the creative hub, linking play between midfield and attack while also drifting wide to exploit Chelsea’s flanks.

Verdict

A draw felt like the fair result in a game where Chelsea’s possession lacked cutting edge, and Palace’s counter-attacks were sporadic but effective. Both teams will take lessons from this encounter, with Chelsea lamenting missed opportunities and Palace celebrating their resilience.