Jose Mourinho's men have been the forerunners for the title unopposed for the majority of the season, but there is a possibility that the tables could be turned. Despite a dip in form in recent games, Chelsea have managed to remain at the top of the table and wins in their two subsequent games will allow them to win the title this season.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho's tactical astuteness allowed his side to get the better of Van Gaal and Man United last time out and he will be looking to do the same against Arsenal. The Portuguese tactician has enjoyed a phenomenal record against Arsene Wenger, currently unbeaten against the Frenchman in 12 encounters and he will be doing all he can to maintain his good run against his foe.
Arsenal on the other hand are Premier League's most inform team and are probably the only side who can give Chelsea a run for their money in the race for the title as things stand. The Gunners have an almost full fit squad and the Arsenal faithful will be hoping their team can launch a late title assault. Here are five ways Arsenal can beat Chelsea and take the title race to the wire.
Limit the threat posed by Hazard
The Belgian is currently Premier League's hottest property and the prime candidate for the Player of the year award. Even though it's easier said than done but the Arsenal defence must ensure that the 24 year old is kept at bay.
He was the difference maker when Chelsea met Man United last time out and even though his finishing has improved this season he is an equally efficient provider. The Belgian has created 88 chances this season, more than any other player in the league and has supplemented this with 13 goals and eight assists. He is a menace in the opposition half having enjoyed the most touches in the opposition box (231) and will definitely be the biggest threat in Arsenal's quest to attaining all three points.
For Arsenal, Francis Coquelin will have to perform his duties to aplomb and must ensure Hazard is not allowed much freedom. Young Hector Bellerin is expected to be facing Hazard and even though he is very efficient going forward he has struggled defensively at times and this is why Coquelin must ensure he assists the Spaniard in his defensive duties.
Remain patient and disciplined
Jose Mourinho will definitely have a plan in mind ahead of the game and will be fairly content should his side end the match with a point only. He displayed his tactical astuteness last time out against Man United when despite of not having enjoyed much time on the ball, his team managed to record all three points.
It is likely that the Portuguese will implement the same tactics against Arsenal and the Gunners must be ready for it. They must ensure that they do not get frustrated or carried away in their attempts and keep trying to look for spaces. At the same time it is important that they do not make any mistakes at the back because Chelsea will pounce at every opportunity they get.
Be wary of a counter attack
A defensive game by Chelsea will result in Arsenal sending the cavalry forward, which will allow them to be more dangerous going forward but will at the same time make them vulnerable at the back. Arsenal have been caught at counter attacks a number of times this season and they must ensure they do not make the same mistakes again.
Alexis Sanchez must step up
Whereas Hazard has been widely tipped to claim the POTY award. Sanchez has made a strong claim for himself as well. The Chilean has been inspirational in his debut season for the Gunners and has surely justified his hefty price tag.
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He has scored some important goals for his side especially a brace against Reading last time out which sent Arsenal to the FA Cup Final for the second consecutive season. For Arsenal to get anything out of the match, the Chilean must bring his A game to the match.
Giroud must start
The Frenchman was a surprise exclusion in the match against Reading but it is important that he starts against Chelsea. The Frenchman has really stepped up for Arsenal this season and has pitched in with 17 goals from 23 appearances. The Gunners can expect a real physical battle in the match against the Blues and they will need Giroud in the starting line-up to respond to that.
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