Chelsea’s Wembley triumph over Spurs – in pictures
Chelsea ended up convincing 4-2 winners over Tottenham in a captivating FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.
The day started with all the talk concentrating on Diego Costa and Eden Hazard’s shock omission from the starting line-up but both were to play to a crucial role in a thrilling Blues victory.
Conte’s surprise choice
Boss Antonio Conte’s decision to rest Hazard was no more than a minor surprise, with Willian always likely to continue his 100% record in this season’s FA Cup and Pedro in good form. But not many predicted Michy Batshuayi making just his sixth start of the season in place of top scorer Costa.
Ake takes his chance
Conte had hinted at Nathan Ake’s inclusion on Friday and the 22-year-old defender gave a superb performance full of maturity and discipline. His tackling stood out throughout, with one of his first contributions leading directly to the break that ended with Pedro winning a free-kick.
Willian hits the mark
Willian made sure the free-kick counted, smashing the ball home into the far corner for a 1-0 lead – a perfect start for the Blues.
Spurs hit back
Harry Kane’s stooping header levelled for Spurs with Chelsea seemingly on top and looking like grabbing a second.
Son fails to shine
But stand-in left wing-back Son was proving to be a weak link in the Tottenham defence and an ill-timed challenge on Victor Moses enabled Willian to restore the lead from the penalty spot.
Time for change
Dele Alli’s stunning first-time finish from Christian Eriksen’s exquisite pass drew Tottenham level again, but with Spurs controlling possession and territory, Conte made a double change.
Kante gets a grip
N’Golo Kante slowly began to get more of a grip on the midfield, safe in the knowledge that Hazard’s strength on the ball and Costa’s hold-up play would make a difference.
Eden delivers
Hazard restored the Chelsea lead with a magnificent low strike and the tide was well and truly turning in Chelsea’s direction.
Matic magic
And a goal fit to seal any big match completed the scoring, Nemanja Matic smashing in a glorious strike from distance with just over 10 minutes left, sealing Chelsea’s place in the final.
