Chelsea Secures Vital Away Goal In Madrid

Chelsea scored a vital away goal after a 1-1 draw against Real Madrid in their Champions League semi-final first-leg tie at the Alfredo Di Stefano stadium in Madrid.

It was the first meeting between them in 23 years, since the 1998 UEFA Super Cup in Monaco. Chelsea’s quick passing in midfield caused Real Madrid a lot of problems early on and Timo Werner should have given the visitors the lead. However, the German was denied from six yards out by Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois save.

Moments later, Chelsea took the lead in fine fashion when Antonio Ruddier found Christian Pulisic with a lovely pass and the American rounded Courtois to give Thomas Tuchel’s side the perfect start.

Real Madrid didn’t look comfortable in its 3-5-2 system and couldn’t contain Chelsea’s speed, energy and intensity.

Chelsea continued to press and its ruthlessness in front of goal stopped them from extending its lead. However, in the 29th minute the in-form Karim Benzema made the visitors pay for their wastefulness.

A corner was launched into the Chelsea box and the ball fell to Benzema, who controlled the ball surrounded by Chelsea defenders and fired an unstoppable shot into the roof of the net.

Karim Benzema took his UEFA Champions League goals total to 71, matching Real Madrid legend Raúl González’s tally to become the joint fourth highest scorer in Europe’s top club football competition. The score line remained 1-1 at half-time.

In the second half, Werner had another half chance, but took too long to fire at goal which allowed Raphael Varane back to make a crucial block.

Former Chelsea star Eden Hazard was introduced with 25 minutes left but he had no impact on the game as Chelsea were in control of the game. The match finished 1-1 and the advantage will be with Chelsea as the pair will meet again next Wednesday (May 5) at Stamford Bridge to decide who reaches the final in Istanbul on May 29.

⏰ RESULT ⏰

⚪️ Benzema thumps in close-range equaliser