Well, it hasn’t quite got the prestige of the Bangkok Century Cup, or the fissionability of the Audi Cup…however it is still the Florida Cup! And that deserves your respect!
These two proud English sides will contest the 2022 edition of the cup in America and whilst I might not have managed to avoid a facetious tone in my introduction, both sets of fans will expect their sides to avoid defeat.
To Win (90 mins)
Arsenal 37/20
Draw 22/10
Chelsea 13/10
Arsenal
Mikel Arteta’s side begun their tour of the United States with a friendly fixture against Everton. The Gunners ran out 2-0 victors on that occasion and to be fair, the model and system employed by the men from north London was largely impressive.
Of course, these sorts of fixtures are always an event whereby clubs hope to put on a show for their support base in these international countries and effectively entertain a grand marketing scheme – whilst also ensuring appropriate preparation is conducted for their upcoming season.
New signing Gabriel Jesus has been the star so far, scoring twice against Nurnberg and then against Everton as well.
I’m sure Arsenal fans around the world are intrigued to see how the Brazilian performs in his new red strip – but so far so good is certainly the call!
In my estimation, after reading rather extensively on Arsenal’s preparation and performances as well as finding links (completely legal of course) to watch some of their pre-season games, it is interesting that Arteta seems completely invested in setting up a team to dictate the pace and movement of the football.
Counter-pressing high to win it back early and then at times even slowing it down so long as they maintain possession.
I think this could be a team which can upset the status quo a little bit insofar as who qualifies for those Tuesday and Wednesday European spots…Jesus is a special player and after seeing him supported by the young talent Arsenal hold in the central forward areas – he could rip up the league this year.
Chelsea
The Blues continue to build towards their 2022-23 Premier League season, and after a tasty affair against Club America from Mexico, Thomas Tuchel will certainly be better poised to have some of his early questions answered.
Chelsea recently confirmed Raheem Sterling as their first arrival during the summer window but have now consolidated that effort with Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli. I think it is close to criminal that Chelsea have managed to secure the defenders services for the fee they have – but that might just be sour grapes…
Tuchel has travelled with a strong squad but as is so often the case – and rightly so – in these encounters, a host of changes and various combinations will be used so that the manager continues to find his best squad.
In truth, the end of the season last year begun to flatter and then deceive and then just simply fizzle out for the Blues. They were there and there abouts throughout before just seemingly slipping under the radar and quietly welcomed the end of their domestic campaign.
The prestigious Florida cup provides Tuchel’s side an opportunity to get a win over their rivals and as a bonus, lift some silverware before they head back across the pond and look ahead to the impending season.
So, whilst the result will be argued and used more as a banter stick between fans, what you should really be on the lookout for is the sort of display the teams put on, is there sufficient urgency, hunger and energy between their system and style of play? Are they able to impose themselves on their opposition effectively for large portions of the game? these questions are far more important than positing on Instagram that your team has won a pre-season trophy!
Prediction: Arsenal/Draw + BTTS (13/10)
I think Arsenal to win and both teams scoring is the safest bet to see a return in this game. Arsenal have looked like a side who have a clear and uncompromised approach to how they want to play this year. Mikel Arteta has shown his appreciation for defensive football through his commitment to hold onto the ball and this is achieved without restricting to the freedom and ability he has in the younger players who are further up the pitch for Arsenal.
At 13/10, I’m not sure you need too much convincing – so by all means, have a dabble!
