Real Madrid Take Control of Champions League Quarterfinal with Win Over Chelsea.
1. Introduction
Real Madrid, the defending champions of the UEFA Champion s League, defeated Chelsea 2-0 in the quarterfinal first leg match held at Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday, April 12, 2023. The match showcased an impressive performance from player Real Madrid, with Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio securing the goals that led to the win.
Madrid's Clinical Performance Sends Message to Rest of Europe
2. Real Madrid vs. Chelsea Game First Leg Recap
The match began with Chelsea starting strong under the guidance of their caretaker manager Frank Lampard. Joao Felix and Raheem Sterling made strong attempts early on, but they were thwarted by Rea l Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Madrid grew into the game and managed to take the lead in the 20th minute. Karim Benzema seized the opportunity when Kepa Arrizabalaga deflected a Vinicius Junior shot into his path, and he rolled the ball into an open net. It was Benzema's 90th Champions League goal, with the last 11 coming against English clubs.
3. Second Half Action
Madrid dominated the second half, and Chelsea's job became more challenging when Ben Chilwell was shown a straight red card after he hauled down Rodrygo from behind as he rushed towards the goal. Marco Asensio replaced Rodrygo in the 71st minute and lashed home a shot from the top of the penalty area, securing the second goal for Madrid.
4. Stellar Champions League Performance by Benzema and Vinicius
The match proved to be another impressive Champions League night for both Benzema and Vinicius. Vinicius notched two assists, bringing his total goal contributions to 11 in European competition this season, second only to Erling Haaland's 12. Ancelotti praised Asensio's performance, stating that he is "good between the lines and has a great shot."
5. Thoughts on the Match
Benzema missed an opportunity to effectively end Chelsea's hopes of a comeback when he headed over the goal in added time. Chelsea's substitute, Mason Mount, came close to scoring a crucial goal, but former teammate Antonio Rudiger blocked his shot. The match marked the fourth consecutive game in which Chelsea failed to score, including three Premier League matches. Lampard embraced Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti, himself a former Chelsea manager, at the final whistle. Lampard stated that his team would have to believe in themselves for next week's return leg in London.
6. Conclusion
Despite the decisive first-leg win, Ancelotti stated that the job was far from done, and they would have to fight for another 90 minutes in the return leg. Madrid had a complete game, and their objective was to take the advantage, which they did. However, Chelsea is a good team with excellent players, and Real Madrid will have to suffer and repeat this game again at Stamford Bridge.
