Atletico Madrid vs. Chelsea Champions League Semifinal Analysis, Recap: Pros & Cons For Each Team After 0-0 Draw
Chelsea and Atletico Madrid played to a scoreless draw in their first Champions League semifinal leg on Tuesday. The match, which was played in Spain's capital, featured major victories for both sides. Here is a look at what each team won and what each side lost.
Pros
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho probably told his team to sit back and defend like crazy. And that is exactly what they did. For the full 90 minutes, it was rare to see Chelsea produce a major scoring opportunity. In fact, they were out-chanced 25 to five but did manage two shots on target to Madrid's four. Madrid dominated possession and looked the better side throughout, but the fact that the scoreline remained at 0-0 bodes extremely well for the Blues. It is essential to note that Chelsea tied 1-1 in the first leg against Galatasaray before winning 2-0 at home. In the PSG quarterfinals matchup, the team lost 3-1 in the first leg before producing a 2-0 win in the rematch. A 0-0 draw is the best possible outcome for Chelsea (aside from a win) as they now have the home fans to help lift them past the Rojiblancos.
The 0-0 draw is also a victory for Atletico Madrid. They may not have scored, but they did not conceded the fated away goal and basically go into Chelsea without having to worry about scoring a specific number of goals. The team can afford a 1-1 draw or can simply play for the victory. The pressure is now on Chelsea to produce a victory as a 1-1 draw or greater would eliminate the blues.
Cons
For Atletico Madrid, the 0-0 draw has its negatives. The team has been dominant at home in the tournament but has not fared as well on the road. The side won 1-0 at AC Milan but could have easily lost if not for some luck and saves from Thibaut Courtois. At home, the side won 4-1. Against Barcelona, Madrid managed a 1-1 draw, but the team really erupted at home in a 1-0 win that could have been 3-0 or 4-0 if the ball had not hit the post as many times as it did. As noted above, a 0-0 draw is nothing to cry about, but a game in Chelsea (where Mourinho has been virtually invincible his entire career) is a dangerous proposition.
For Chelsea, the biggest losses of the game were the injuries that it incurred. Top goalie Petr Cech went down early while defenseman John Terry also suffered a knock. These are two vital players that would play a huge role in what should be a more wide open game at the Stamford Bridge. Chelsea is not supposed to sit back at home, but the loss of its top keeper and one of its best defenders may force Mourinho into a tough situation.
This match certainly lived up to its billing and should make for a riveting return leg next week.
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