Real Madrid took a commanding lead in the Champions League semi-final with a 2-0 win over Chelsea at the Santiago Bernabeu. The hosts scored twice in the second half through Karim Benzema and Sergio Ramos, while Chelsea failed to create any clear chances and looked vulnerable at the back.
The result leaves Frank Lampard’s side with a mountain to climb in the second leg at Stamford Bridge, where they will need to score at least three goals to have any hope of reaching the final. Lampard’s tactics backfired as he opted for a defensive 5-3-2 formation that gave Real too much space and possession in midfield.
Real dominated the game from the start, with Luka Modric and Toni Kroos pulling the strings and finding Benzema and Vinicius Junior with ease. Chelsea’s only threat came from the pace of Timo Werner and Christian Pulisic on the break, but they were isolated and outnumbered by Real’s defence.
The first half ended goalless, but Real broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute when Benzema volleyed home from close range after a corner was flicked on by Casemiro. The French striker scored his 71st goal in the Champions League, equalling Raul’s record for Real and moving behind only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the all-time list.
Chelsea tried to respond, but they lacked creativity and composure in the final third. Lampard brought on Hakim Ziyech and Tammy Abraham for Pulisic and Werner, but they made little impact. Real doubled their lead in the 78th minute when Ramos headed in a free kick from Kroos, sealing a comfortable win for Zinedine Zidane’s side.
The only sour note for Real was the injury to Eden Hazard, who limped off in the 83rd minute after a clash with N’Golo Kante. The Belgian winger was making his first appearance against his former club, but he had a quiet night and was booed by some Chelsea fans.
One of the biggest disappointments for Chelsea was the dismal performance of Joao Felix, who was signed for a club-record £113 million from Atletico Madrid in the summer.
The Portuguese starlet was expected to be Chelsea’s main playmaker, but he looked lost and frustrated on the right wing. He had only 18 touches of the ball, completed one dribble and failed to register a shot or a key pass. He was substituted in the 67th minute for Mason Mount, who also struggled to make an impression.
Real will be confident of reaching their fifth Champions League final in eight years, while Chelsea will need a miracle to turn the tie around. Lampard will have to rethink his tactics and motivate his players for the second leg, which will take place on May 3.
Final Thoughts: Real Madrid Takes Commanding Lead over Chelsea in Champions League Semi-Final
Real Madrid showed their class and experience in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Chelsea, securing a 2-0 win at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Spanish side dominated the game, controlling possession and creating numerous chances while limiting Chelsea’s opportunities.
Karim Benzema and Sergio Ramos were the heroes for Real, scoring the goals that put their team in a strong position heading into the second leg. Benzema’s goal was particularly impressive, showcasing his excellent technique and finishing ability. The French striker has been in fantastic form this season and looks like one of the best players in the world right now.
Chelsea, on the other hand, struggled to get going and were let down by their defensive tactics. Frank Lampard opted for a 5-3-2 formation that gave Real too much space in midfield and allowed their opponents to dominate the game.
The English side lacked creativity and composure in the final third and will need to do much better in the second leg if they want to have any chance of progressing to the final.
One of the biggest disappointments for Chelsea was the performance of Joao Felix, who was signed for a club-record fee in the summer but failed to make an impact in the game. The Portuguese winger looked lost and frustrated on the right wing and will need to do much better in the future if he wants to justify his price tag.
Overall, Real Madrid look like the clear favorites to progress to the final, but anything can happen in football, and Chelsea will be hoping to stage a miraculous comeback in the second leg. It should be an exciting game, and fans will be eagerly anticipating the clash at Stamford Bridge on May 3.
