No more Messi-ng around
If they are not mesmerised by the intricacies of the passing, all the kitchen sinks in Catalonia will be thrown at them.
LET’S HEAR IT for Chelsea, for Roberto Di Matteo’s tactics and team selection and for heroic performances from the old guard and a couple of new recruits.
Let us salute a result that will resonate throughout Europe and one that gives the Blues a fighting chance of realising their owner’s ultimate dream. Out of a nightmare season, that is some turnaround.
Make no mistake, this was a famous victory but for all those now saying RDM is a shoo-in for the permanent job, that Lionel Messi is a mere mortal and that possession may not be nine tenths of football law after all, it may be time to take a deep breath.
It is only halftime in the tie and despite Pep Guardiola’s mind games in suggesting otherwise, Barca are surely still favourites.
They were rattled at Stamford Bridge and knocked out of their strolling-minstrel stride, but in the intimidating Nou Camp there is no better place to regain it.
They’ve lost only five times there in 88 Champions League ties.
OK, Chelsea don’t have to win to reach a second final but expecting Petr Cech’s goal to have another charmed life may be pushing things.
Had Alexis Sanchez’ early chip not rebounded off the bar, we may be talking about a routine Barca victory.
And had Pedro’s last-second strike not hit the post, Barca probably would have been content with a draw.
Chelsea scored with their only shot on target, enjoyed just
Category: Sports
