All you need to know about Chelsea’s strategy for a quarter-final berth in UEFA Champions League

Chelsea will be looking to cement their place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. After defeating Atletico Madrid in the crucial first leg, Chelsea looks to be in an advantageous position because of their solid defense, and an additional advantage of an away goal. The likes of Jorginho and Mason Mount would be missing due to suspensions, which might create some worry for manager Thomas Tuchel as they have been pivotal in the success of this team under Tuchel.

Let’s look at some key players we feel would have a positive impact for their respective sides.

CHELSEA
OLIVIER GIROUD

Giroud has had a phenomenal impact for Chelsea since his arrival. His European record has been further impressive, right from the Maurizio Sarri days. His bicycle kick goal gave Chelsea the away goal advantage and there is no doubt that he will once be important for Chelsea’s chances to proceed to the quarter-finals.

CESAR AZPILICUETA

Captain of the team, Azpilicueta has started almost every game under Tuchel. He has been instrumental at the RCB (Right Centre Back) position and forms a crucial part of Chelsea’s defense. Chelsea would need him in his best to stop the Atletico attack from scoring.

EDOUARD MENDY

Chelsea’s 22million signing has time and again proven what a bargain he is for Chelsea. Having replaced the out of favor Kepa Arrizabalaga, the pressure to perform on him was huge. With consistent performances and clean sheets in his last 5 games, Mendy would look for another clean sheet in his kitty.

ATLETICO MADRID

LUIS SUAREZ

The name says it all. Luis Suarez has been a legend of the game and his performances throughout the years have shown us why. He has been in excellent form for Atletico Madrid and can be extremely dangerous for Chelsea’s defense.

JOAO FELIX

The ‘wonder kid’ from Portugal has been excellent for the Spanish team. His ability to break defenses from the center has troubled many teams in the past. His partnership with Suarez can be the deciding factor for Atletico’s chances to beat Chelsea, who is very solid defensively right now.

Written by: Aditya Paharia