Jonathan Bead
Chelsea’s Scoring Woes Continue in Champions League Tie Against Madrid
Chelsea’s long-standing inability to convert scoring chances is once again a cause for concern as they failed to score for the fourth consecutive game. Their goal drought spans over six hours, and they have had 61 shots without finding the net. While the tie against Real Madrid is still alive, with Madrid only able to add one goal to Karim Benzema’s opener despite their dominance and the second-half sending off of Ben Chilwell, it is hard to see much cause for optimism that Chelsea will actually turn it around. Chelsea will need to score at least two goals in the second leg, something they have only managed four times in their last 22 games in all competitions.
Relentless Vinicius Shines for Real Madrid Against Chelsea
Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior was irrepressible, ripping Frank Lampard’s Chelsea apart on their right-hand side. Despite not scoring himself, he made four scoring chances and four successful dribbles, while only Karim Benzema had managed more shots. He was the architect of both Real Madrid goals, first diverting Dani Carvajal’s searching ball over the top into the path of Benzema, then teeing up substitute Marco Asensio for the second following a corner routine. Vinicius had 19 touches in the opposition box – the most by any player in any Champions League game this season and 15 more than anyone else on the night. Vinicius’ relentless performance is all the more impressive considering this was his 97th appearance for Real Madrid since the start of last season. It would be no surprise if Vinicius is the one to kill this tie in next week’s second leg.
Silva and Kante Provide Chelsea with a Timely Boost
Chelsea’s absence of key players Thiago Silva and N’Golo Kante has been hampering their form in recent months. Silva returned to action after six weeks on the sidelines and proved his worth, making match-high four clearances and had the highest passing accuracy of the Chelsea XI that started the game. Kante, who made a bold move by starting him, won possession seven times – the second-highest of the Chelsea squad. They provide a timely return for the remaining games this season as Chelsea look to salvage their season.
Milan Outclass Serie A Leaders Napoli in San Siro
AC Milan put in a masterclass performance to beat Napoli, the Serie A champions-elect, at the San Siro. Milan, the masters of game management, weathered each Napoli storm admirably to edge round one. Napoli’s attack was subdued, and they were blunted by missing man Victor Osimhen. Milan is far too streetwise to roll over, but Napoli’s all-action display in the second leg next week could turn the game.
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