Chelsea host Atletico Madrid this evening looking to secure their spot in the Champions League final. Diego SImeone’s men are currently top of La Liga, though, so it will have to be a special performance. Keeping the 0-0 result from the first leg, here are three things Chelsea must do to beat the Spaniards.
1) Smother Costa
The Brazilian-born Spain international is having a fabulous season to date and has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge on a number of occasions this season.
He is a feisty player who is easily rattled, so I am sure if Terry, Cahill or Luiz keep tight on him and frustrate, he will boil over and let them effect his game.
This will have to be for the entire 90 minutes, though, as he has can spark something special at any moment.
2) Hit the flanks
Atleti are a solid side through the centre of the pitch but in the wing back areas I think they are there to be got at. Juanfran isn’t the most convincing right-back, so with Eden Hazard returning to action, I would like to see him test the Spaniard early on in the game.
Hazard has two goals in the Champions League so far, but has scored another 15 in other competitions.
3) Continue resilience from first leg
Over the last two games we have seen a tactical masterclass from the Blues, and I think they should continue with the same set up. Mourinho has received some criticism because of it, but it gets results.