Last night's Carabao cup semifinal first leg clash between Chelsea and Arsenal saw a stalemate ensue. But it was a stalemate with interesting points to pick out of.

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The second game in about three quick-fire matches between these sides. While the first game was filled with goals and talking points, this game was a huge contrast to the first -in respect to goals- but it had its fair share of talking points.

COSTA TO MORATA

While the premier league game at the Emirates saw Morata frustrate Chelsea fans with three incredulous misses that would have given his team maximum points, last night's match saw him being less profligate even though he didn't get clearcut chances.
Chelsea fans were quick to cast heir minds back to the days of Diego Costa. Their fearsome striker who usually got the job done against Arsenal either through his brilliance or his cunningness.
The Chelsea faithful should understand that Morata is a much different type of striker. With 2 goals in his last 9 appearance in all competitions and a 47% pass completion rate last night (lowest of any player on the pitch including goalkeepers), it is clear the Spaniard's form has nosedived from what it used to be at the beginning of the season.
Even though he didn't score, at least, the performance was an improved one from the last.

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LIFE AFTER SANCHEZ AND OZIL
Was Wenger's team selection yesterday an indication of his preparation for life after his top performers?
Ozil was ruled out through injury and Arsene was expected to start Sanchez but the Chilean was started from the bench. Even though the absence of these stars was notable in the team, the Arsenal players gave a dogged performance.
Perhaps, life after Arsenal's contract rebels may look good after all, judging by last night's match.

MUSTAFI

The German was outstanding yesterday. He went toe-to-toe against Chelsea's front two of Morata and Hazard switching from strength to quick thinking for both players respectively.
Mustafi was at the heart of the defensive work for the gunners and it'll be no gain saying Ospina was grateful for his presence. The Colombian having conceded four goals against an underperforming championship side last Sunday.
With the continual absence of Laurent Koscielny and Sead Kolasinac, Mustafi will be doggedness will be important for Arsenal going forward.

WILSHERE INJURY

Jack Wilshere got to be skipper for the night and it was more like a reward for his good form lately. Having started 14 games this season it's being thought by many that he's overcome his injury woes.
His old foe came calling again sadly. He blocked a shot from Drinkwater and strained his ankle. He received treatment, tried to play on but was soon taken off.
He watched the rest of the game with ice on his ankle.
Wenger confirmed that it was an ankle strain and he'd miss the game against Bournemouth.
Hopefully for Jack,the injury isn't serious and he returns to action soon.

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ARSENE AND ARSENAL'S NEW TACTIC; A BUS?

It's taken years but Arsene Wenger has finally started being pragmatic when he needs to. Although he's been inconsistent even in his pragmatic approach.
Last saw an Arsenal that got what they deserved.

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Defensively, they looked very strong.
Chelsea didn't really penetrate Arsenal's defensive third even though they had more possession in both halves and more chances.
For a football purist manager like Wenger, his team looked really defensive minded last night. Made them look more disciplined and resolute.

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