Chelsea 3-0 Sheffield Wednesday: 5 Talking Points & Tactical Analysis | FA Cup 2018-19

#2 Chelsea start strong, Owls defend in numbers

Callum Hudson-Odoi masterminded most of Chelsea's attacks

As envisioned, Chelsea got into their shape in no time, and so did Sheffield Wednesday. At the end of the first 45 minutes, the hosts saw just over 80% of the ball. They recycled possession over and over again, played passes sideways and played the patience game, just as they've been doing all winter.

At just about the hour mark, the Blues had contributed to 59% of their attacks from the right. With Callum Hudson-Odoi's pacy and direct style of play on display coupled with the ever-willing Azpilicueta's runs, Chelsea had most of their crosses and chances played in from the right side.

Not many chances fell to Chelsea as they only mustered a shot on target, but Gonzalo Higuain did time his runs to perfection. On one occasion, he ran across the back line and was played through by Kovacic, but couldn't time his shot well enough for it to test Keiran Westwood's goal.

The Owls though, were extremely well-drilled, as they organized in packs and didn't show too much to Chelsea. They dealt with every single cross from Hudson-Odoi by winning the very first ball.