Thomas Tuchel swapped Edouard Mendy for Kepa Arrizabalaga in extra time as Chelsea defeated Villareal in the Super Cup final. The move ended up being a tactical masterstroke as Kepa went on to save two penalties which ensured victory for the Blues against their opponents.
With the Super Cup game tied a goal apiece and when it appeared that the match would go on to penalties, Tuchel subbed on Kepa in the 119th minute to take the place of Mendy. The Spaniard was hence entrusted to take the ensuing penalty shootout.
Tuchel’s decision ended up being a brilliant one as Kepa saved Mandi and Raul Albiol’s spot-kicks to help Chelsea win yet another European silverware and their first trophy of the season.
Speaking to BT Sport after the game Tuchel explained his decision:
“It was not spontaneous,” the Chelsea boss explained.
“We talked about it with the goalkeepers after the first cup game against Barnsley [in the FA Cup last season]. We had some statistics. We were well prepared.
“Kepa has the best percentage at saving penalties, the analysing guys and goalkeeping coaches showed me the data. We spoke to the players that this could happen when we play in knockout games. It’s fantastic how Edouard accepted it.
“There is proof that Kepa is better in this discipline. They’re team players. Edouard does not show the pride to not step off the field. He was happy to do it for the team and take this for the team.”
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It was perhaps an ironic situation for Kepa as the memory of the Spaniard’s refusal to be substituted in the 2019 Carabao Cup final defeat against Manchester City under former manager Maurizio Sarri still lingered in the minds of many Chelsea fans.
Both keepers were interviewed after the match and they both echoed that the win was all that mattered and that they were both happy to help the team.
“I’m happy because we won,” Mendy said. “I knew since last year that if Kepa came on the pitch he would help the team. It’s a team effort. We play for Chelsea and for success. We did this today together.”
Kepa added: “It’s not a typical situation but we arrived to penalties after Edouard did a fantastic job. Finally, we won and we are so happy. I was ready because I knew this could happen. I tried to be ready mentally and physically.”
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