A very dull match between tho disciplined teams in the first leg, with Chelsea using the so called "park the bus" tactic. However, it was a fine performance, they cancelled out the on-fire striker Diego Costa for most of the match and making several crucial blocks and tackles around their box. Chelsea will be missing their number one goalkeeper Petr Cech, as he is out for the season after dislocating his shoulder in the early stages of the first match. 41 year old veteran keeper Mark Schwarzer will step in, but this will be no handicap for Chelsea, as Schwarzer proved he is a top keeper after keeping clean sheets in the rest of the first match against Atletico and a free-scoring Liverpool side. Captain John Terry is also doubtful because of an ankle injury, so we may see Ashley Cole retain the left-back position and Branislav Ivanovic shifting to centre-back. Atletico, who are on the verge of winning La Liga will have to play without their captain Gabi, so Tiago Mendes might get a start.
Expected Lineups:
Schwarzer; Azpilicueta, Cahill, Ivanovic, Cole; Ramires, D.Luiz; Willian, Oscar, Hazard; Eto'o/Schurlle
Courtois; Juanfran, Miranda, Godin, F.Luis; Tiago, M.Suarez; Koke, Raul Garcia, Turan/Diego; Diego Costa
Our Prediction:
It is hard to bet against Mourinho - Chelsea proved in the recent matches (PSG, Atletico, Liverpool) that they have great fighting spirit and are always capable to get the result they need. They will be disciplined at the back and wait for their chance. Result: Chelsea win 1:0.
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| Chelsea's defence vs. Diego Costa (photo: todayonline.com) |
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