Bournemouth vs Chelsea: Premier League 2024 - Match Analysis

Final Score: Bournemouth 0-1 Chelsea

Overview

The Premier League clash between Bournemouth and Chelsea on September 14, 2024, at the Vitality Stadium ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Chelsea. The match was characterized by missed opportunities, a record number of yellow cards, and a late winner from Christopher Nkunku, assisted by debutant Jadon Sancho.

Key Moments and Turning Points

Evanilson's Penalty Miss

Bournemouth's record signing, Evanilson, had a golden opportunity to put his team ahead in the 36th minute after winning a penalty due to a mistake by Chelsea's Wesley Fofana. However, his low shot was brilliantly saved by Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, who was one of the standout performers of the match. This miss proved to be a pivotal moment, as it allowed Chelsea to stay in the game and eventually snatch a late winner.

Jadon Sancho's Impact

Jadon Sancho, making his debut for Chelsea after a loan move from Manchester United, was introduced at halftime. His energy and creativity immediately lifted Chelsea's performance. Sancho's clever pass in the 86th minute found Christopher Nkunku, who managed to get between two defenders and slot the ball into the bottom corner, securing the win for Chelsea. Sancho's performance earned him the Man of the Match award and showcased his potential to be a key player for Chelsea this season.

Record Number of Yellow Cards

The match saw a Premier League record of 14 yellow cards being issued by referee Anthony Taylor. Despite the high number of bookings, the game was not particularly dirty, but the referee's strictness contributed to the record. This aspect of the game added to the drama and tension, especially in the closing stages.

Tactical Analysis

Bournemouth's Approach

Bournemouth, under manager Andoni Iraola, started the game brightly and were the better team for large parts of the match. They created several good chances, with Marcus Tavernier hitting the crossbar early on and Justin Kluivert forcing a smart save from Sanchez. Bournemouth's pressing and energy troubled Chelsea, particularly down the right side where Axel Disasi struggled as a makeshift right-back.

Chelsea's Struggles and Adjustments

Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, had a difficult first half, struggling to create clear-cut chances and looking vulnerable at the back. The introduction of Sancho at halftime was a crucial adjustment that changed the dynamics of the game. Sancho's ability to link up play and create opportunities was evident, and his combination with Marc Cucurella and Nkunku in the second half provided Chelsea with the attacking impetus they lacked in the first half.

Player Performances

Bournemouth

• Evanilson: Worked hard and won the penalty but his miss was a significant moment. Substituted in the 68th minute.
• Marcus Tavernier: One of Bournemouth's brightest players, hitting the crossbar and creating several chances.
• Justin Kluivert: Looked lively and forced a good save from Sanchez.

Chelsea

• Robert Sanchez: The hero of the match for Chelsea, making several crucial saves including the penalty.
• Jadon Sancho: Made an immediate impact off the bench, providing the assist for the winning goal and earning the Man of the Match award.
• Christopher Nkunku: Came on as a late substitute and scored the decisive goal, showing his clinical finishing ability.

Managerial Insights

Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth)

Iraola's team played well and created enough chances to win the game. However, the lack of clinical finishing and the penalty miss were costly. Iraola will need to address these issues and find a way to convert their dominance into goals.

Enzo Maresca (Chelsea)

Maresca's decision to bring on Sancho at halftime was a masterstroke. Despite Chelsea's overall poor performance, the manager's substitutions made the difference. Maresca will be pleased with the three points but aware that his team needs to improve, especially in defense and midfield.

Conclusion

The match between Bournemouth and Chelsea was a classic example of a game where the better team did not win. Bournemouth will feel hard done by, having missed a penalty and hit the woodwork twice. Chelsea, on the other hand, will be relieved to have secured the win despite their struggles. The performances of Robert Sanchez and Jadon Sancho were crucial in securing the three points for Chelsea, highlighting the importance of individual brilliance in football.