Match Review: Chelsea vs Club Atletico Madrid

Okay, its the return leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-finals today with Chelsea facing Atletico at The Bridge tonight. This is a game in which the stakes are high and features two defensively tight teams as neither of them would like to dominate possesion only to be caught at the counter. Chelsea, in particular have been criticised of their style of play as the media have labelled them 'Boring' and 'masters of 19th century football.' However, Blues Boss, Jose Mourinho has refuted such claims saying: "Football is full of philosophers, people who understand much more than me. Amazing. But the reality is the reality. A team that doesn't defend well doesn't have many chances to win.If the opponent is very fast and needs space
behind your defence and you give them that
space, you are stupid," added Mourinho. Atletico Madrid were the aggressors for much
of their 0-0 first leg draw at their home ground. Atleti fired 25 shots on Chelsea's goal and enjoyed 69% possession.
However, only four of those 25 shots hit the
target as the Spaniards failed to capitalise on
their possession advantage with goals.
Atletico is much more adept at counter attacking than breaking down the
opposition with loads of possession, but with
Chelsea missing key personnel in the second
leg, the onus will be on manager Diego
Simeone to take advantage by making more
attacking moves.
At the back, Atletico remains incredibly solid.
The first leg draw was their fifth straight game
without conceding a goal in all competitions;
they've allowed just five in the Champions
League.
BRIEF STATISTICS. Chelsea have not lost in their last 12 Home European Semi final encounters (W9 D3). Atletico Madrid are the only Unbeaten team in the competition this Season (W8 D3). INCREDIBLE LEAGUE PREDICTION. This promises to be a tight and pulsating encounter so let's not get carried away by expecting fireworks and entertainment. CHELSEA 1 - 1 ATLETICO MADRID. Club Atletico to go through to the Finals in Lisbon for the Derby!