Tense meeting at Stamford Bridge
Chelsea welcome Atletico Madrid to the Bridge on Wednesday night during the second leg of their Champions League matchup. Chelsea edged the first one in Madrid with 0-1 meaning this tie is still very much alive and kicking.
Chelsea
The Blue's have been on a seriously impressive run of form since the employment of Thomas Tuchel spanning back to the 27th of January and consisting of 8 wins and 4 draws. However, the most impressive part of it is Chelsea's goal difference of 13-2 proving that their defence is much improved since the departure of Lampard.
In all honesty, to the surprise of probably pretty much everyone who watched the game, Atletico were toothless and close to dominated by Chelsea who did not allow the Spaniards a single shot on goal. The Blues eventually, and well deservedly, won it courtesy of yet another Giroud masterpiece putting them in the very advantageous situation of being 0-1 up and playing at home.
Positive changes
As mentioned earlier, Tuchel has really changed Chelsea's defence for the better, an aspect that has got them looking like a totally reinvigorated side and if they keep that up on Wednesday, they will more than likely book their ticket to the quarterfinals.
Atletico Madrid
Chelsea are not the only ones looking like a different side as Atleti are enjoying one of, if not the best, season in 7 years. Los Rojiblancos have slightly altered the way they play with Diego Simeone's trademark defensive style of play making way for a more offensive stance, which can be seen in the fact that they have already scored 50 goals with 11 games left to play, compared to last seasons total haul of 55 goals and the season before thats tally of 58.
Forced forward
Given the offensive change, it was strange seeing them play so passively and defensively, especially given how successful they have been in league play. Luckily for us neutrals, the result from the first leg inherently means that Atleti have to, at some point, push for goals on Wednesday.
Atletico definitely have the means to turn this tie around, and it would not surprise me if they did.
Betting tip
Chelsea's defence looks rock solid at the moment and given that they currently lead 1-0, they will have little incentive to push forward, which is why i will be backing Chelsea win or draw and under 2.5 goals at 2.05 with Betway.
