So let’s analyze how Chelsea can stop Barcelona.
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Daniel Thacker, Chelsea: Antonio Conte was so almost rewarded for his selection gamble, with the decision to field Willian, Pedro Rodríguez and Eden Hazard as a fluid attacking trio proving a masterstroke for 75 minutes.
Speaking at his press conference, Conte revealed that he has been struggling to come to terms with the prospect of playing the Spanish side, who now are on course for completing an impressive treble this season.
Hazard’s performance was in direct contrast to that of Willian, though.
Subsequently, Morata got injured and Chelsea have slipped up. We know that this team now, their level is more up than us. There’s been much speculation over the Italian’s future but his side produced a performance that could only be carried out with complete faith in the manager’s judgement and they should be heading to the Nou Camp in a three week’s time without fear.
“In terms of getting the ball and attacking, it was limited because they had long spells of possession”.
In the brilliant Brazilian Willian, Chelsea had the best player on the pitch on Tuesday night. Willian played really well against Hull [City in the FA Cup] and in the last three games we have scored eight times – seven with Willian, Pedro and Hazard.
Nine years on from combining for a stoppage-time equaliser in a highly controversial semi-final at Stamford Bridge to send Barca to the final, Iniesta and Messi swapped roles as this time the Spaniard provided the pass and Messi the finish.
‘You don’t do that in games of this magnitude, ‘ said the former England defender.
Will Messi finally score against Chelsea today?
The Blues will take on FC Barcelona at the Camp Nou in the return leg of the last 16 clash in Spain on 14 March.
Girona utilized a man to mark Messi in their recent meeting. I think the players are not stupid.
Messi loves to play in the midfield area and the 3-5-2 formation might trouble him.
A brace each from Thomas Mueller (43rd, 66th minutes), Robert Lewandowski (79th, 88th minutes) and a goal from Kingsley Coman (53rd minute) gave Bayern a massive first-leg advantage.
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He also played a pivotal part in Chelsea’s Premier League title win last season and feels that a win is more than likely. No matter who wins tonight, this game promises be a great one for the football fans.
