4 factors to look out for in the 2018 FA cup final
Jose Mourinho is one of the most successful coaches of all time but the FA cup is not one of his lucky tournaments. In an otherwise glittering managerial career, Mourinho has won only 1 FA cup title. Even Manchester United, 12 time winners overall, have won only 1 FA cup title in the last 15 years.
Chelsea have done a lot better in recent times as they won 4 FA cups in 5 seasons from 2006-07 to 2011-12. However, they have not been able to win the tournament since 2012.
Therefore, both teams would be eager to win the oldest football tournament in the world when they lock horns at Wembley on 19th May. Moreover, neither team has managed to win any other trophy this season. So, this could be their last chance to make amends and win a silverware.
Here we take a look at 4 key aspects of the clash. These 4 points could prove to be crucial in determining the fate of the match-up.
#1 Chelsea playing more directly
Chelsea isn't likely to have many ball players in their starting line-up aside Eden Hazard. Both Cesc Fabregas and Pedro Rodriguez are past their respective primes and unlikely to find a place in the starting line-up.
Willian is capable of keeping possession but he is also likely to play as a wing forward and not in his preferred midfield.
Therefore, Chelsea should play more directly and build moves quickly. They should play a lot of aerial balls to the United penalty box.
Olivier Giroud and Alvaro Morata should pose considerable aerial threat to the United defenders. Both are tall and can head the ball very well.
Morata scored a fine goal against Southampton in the semifinal and would hope to have a repeat in the final. Although he might not start, the 25 year old Spanish striker could come in as a substitute and prove to be a game-changer for Chelsea. Morata’s 15 goals in 47 matches for Chelsea do not do justice to his talent and he will want to make amends.
All stats via transfermarkt