Real Madrid beats Chelsea 2-0 in Champions League

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Benzema and Asensio’s two goals helped Real Madrid defeat Chelsea 2-0 at Bernabeu in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals.

Last season, Real Madrid eliminated Chelsea on their way to winning the Champions League title. In this year’s quarterfinal first leg, Real Madrid were considered stronger in terms of both squad depth and form.

At Bernabeu, Real Madrid used an attacking-oriented 4-3-3 formation with Rodrygo, Benzema, and Vinicius as the front three. On the other hand, Sterling and Felix were tasked with scoring for Chelsea.

After the kickoff whistle, Chelsea started the game with a lot of energy. In the second minute, Kante sent a through ball to Felix on a quick counter-attack, but the Portuguese striker’s final shot was saved by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Chelsea’s energy lasted for only about 10 minutes before Real Madrid, with their superior class, took control of the game and pushed The Blues back into a defensive shape.

In the 12th minute, Real Madrid had their first dangerous opportunity after Benzema’s shot from a tight angle inside the box was saved by Kepa. Coach Ancelotti’s side dominated the game completely, and their pressure paid off.

In the 21st minute, Vinicius’ quick pass from Dani Carvajal’s cross was saved by Kepa, but Benzema was in the right place at the right time to tap in a simple rebound and open the scoring for Real Madrid.

Chelsea pushed forward and in the 23rd minute, Reece James sprinted down the flank and crossed the ball to Sterling for a close-range shot, but Courtois’ excellent reflexes saved Real Madrid.

After this moment, Chelsea were forced to defend and had no chances to attack. Lampard’s side retreated and organized their defense, while Real Madrid coordinated their attack efficiently, especially with the speed of Rodrygo and Vinicius on both flanks.

In the second half, Chelsea’s hopes were dashed when defender Ben Chilwell was sent off after he brought down Rodrygo in the 59th minute. Once again, the London club showed their inconsistency and lack of composure in crucial moments.

Playing with an extra man, Real Madrid doubled their lead in the 74th minute thanks to a brilliant performance by substitute player Marco Asensio. Towards the end of the game, coach Carlo Ancelotti chose to rest key players like Luka Modric and Toni Kroos.

In the final 15 minutes of the game, Chelsea tried hard but could not find a way to score. Real Madrid won 2-0 at Bernabeu and gained an advantage in the second leg of the quarterfinals at Stamford Bridge next week.