Chelsea tasted defeat for the first time this season when they were beaten by Manchester City yesterday. A Carlos Tevez goal-the only one on the day, was enough to sink the blues and give them something to think about ahead of European action this week.
After losing their midweek Carling Cup Match to Newcastle, Ancelotti was quick to point out that the tournament was never their priority this season. Many did believe him myself included considering the fact that Chelsea are only after one major trophy that has eluded them- the UEFA Champions League.
However, what Ancelotti was not expecting was a defeat to City yesterday. With Lampard out and Terry barely returning to fitness, the odds were against Chelsea.
Once again it was there hero Carlos Tevez who earned them all the 3 points. From the onset, it was not going to be business as usual for Chelsea as City battled hard with Toure and Tevez posing the greatest challenge for Ancelotti.
Speaking after the match, Mancini hailed his team for their gallant display even in the absence of regular players Boateng and Lescott.
“After five games they scored 21 goals. Chelsea are a fantastic team. Our guys today played a strong, strong match,” the Italian said on Sky Sports 2. “We closed all the space for them and when we had the chance we played football.”
Chelsea Talisman Didier Drogba was even substituted raising concerns if he had acquired an injury. However, Ancelotti defended his actions stating that it was a tactical decision.
“It was a tactical decision,” he said. “I wanted to use the speed of Sturridge on the right side.”
Chelsea welcome French side Marseille to the Stamford Bridge on Tuesday in what should be a real test for the squad. After hammering Zilina 4-1 on opening day, Ancelotti knows that Marseille will be a different side.
Not only are they Ligue 1 champions, but they also have incredible players like Mathieu Valbuena, Andre Ayew, Remy, Heinze and Taiwo who can match the stars of Chelsea.
Ancelotti will definitely want to return to winning and what better way than in front of his own fans.
Photo credit: from dullhunk
