Chelsea may have lost their EFL Cup semi-final first leg clash against fierce rivals Tottenham, but Maurizio Sarri believes his side’s performance at Wembley was one of their best this season
Harry Kane’s converted first-half penalty, awarded by Video Assistant Referee (VAR) following a foul by Kepa Arrizabalaga on him in the area, was enough to hand Spurs a 1-0 win at Wembley on Tuesday night.
Chelsea dominated possession and created more shots at goal than the hosts despite the loss, which Sarri was pleased about – telling reporters the Blues’ overall performance was one of their most “important” this term because his side were consistent throughout the game.
“I think we deserved more because in this match, we played better than the opponents,” he said.
“We were in control and defended well against a dangerous team. We played about 70 balls in the opposition box against 11 of theirs. Eighteen shots against seven, I think, five against two [on target].
“I am really disappointed with the result but happy with the performance. This is one of the most important performances from my team this season.”
When pressed further for why it was so important, Sarri replied: “We played with a very good level of application and determination, with the soul.
“We played in this way for 95 minutes. Usually we defend well for 60 minutes and then we have a problem in the last 15 minutes.”
Chelsea will hosts Spurs in the second leg of the tie later this month but Sarri doesn’t believe it will be easy for the Blues to overcome a 1-0 deficit.
“Tottenham v Chelsea is a difficult match. It won’t be easy to win at Stamford Bridge but after this performance, if we are able to play in the same level we can do it.”