Chelsea FC is the undeniable underdog in their encounter with Real Madrid but has the capacity and the talents to frustrate the odds. Their last encounter at the Bernabeu saw Chelsea win 3-2 thanks to the late goal by Rodrygo and Benzema in the extra time. Accordingly, much has changed since then, and the Los Blancos head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, admitted in a recent interview that Chelsea could frustrate his men on this platform. The brilliance of Madrid in this tournament has been proven.
Real Madrid’s Strengths and Chelsea’s Weakness
The individual prowess of players such as the in-form Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior, and the balanced squad highlight the threat to which Chelsea has been posed. Even with big names in their camp, The Blues lack the precision and the morale to go for the victory. Despite Lampard’s return, Chelsea seems to lack composure, and this problem lies heavily in their finishing.
They simply can’t find the back of the net! They have failed to score in eight of their last thirteen matches. Evidently, the caretaker manager is ready to exploit the most potent squad in Europe to see if they can bring a turnaround in fortunes.
DELE ALLI CAUGHT SMOKING ‘HIPPY CRACK’
Chelsea Tactical Breakdown
To beat Madrid and progress to the semis, Chelsea can twist their style of play in different aspects. For instance, Lampard can allow James and Chillwell to be more involved upfield by adopting the 3-4-3 formation rather than the restrictive 4-3-3 he used against the Wolves. This will provide the width the attackers need and allow Felix and Havertz to pose more threats in front of the goal. Also, the Real backline sometimes shakes, which was apparent in their recent encounter with Villarreal.
Lampard can exploit this on a lucky day and give Raheem Sterling to start the game instead of unsure Kai Havertz. This is because they can keep the ball and is superb in running behind the opponent’s backline. As a false nine, he can deliver in this high stake match. Chelsea still needs the form and energy of the legendary N’Golo Kante.
Chelsea would be desperate to see the player deliver the zeal and determination to win back the ball and run up front. Kante is undeniably the greatest threat to Madrid’s midfield, and if he diligently executes the dirty work, this would create more chances for the other midfielders to get creative.
READ MORE: TITLE RACE INTENSIFIES AS ARSENAL DROP POINTS