Preview Chelsea vs Real Madrid in Champions League 19/4
The second leg quarterfinal match of the 2022/23 Champions League between Chelsea and Real Madrid will take place on April 19th.
- Watch Chelsea vs Real Madrid match
Chelsea has yet to win under interim manager Frank Lampard. Since replacing the head coach, they have lost three consecutive games. Furthermore, in their last six matches, they have not won at Stamford Bridge. The expensive stars of Chelsea have not brought joy to their fans, and there is not much hope for them to advance to the semifinals of the Champions League.
In their loss to Brighton last weekend, Lampard rested many key players of Chelsea on the bench to save energy for the second leg against Real Madrid. However, even with their optimal starting lineup, Chelsea played poorly. The team clearly has issues with their mentality as the players lack connection and a true leader.
Chelsea needs a huge boost in morale, and even the support of their fans at Stamford Bridge may not be enough. Losing 0-2 in the first leg has made the challenge even greater for Lampard and his players. They face a difficult task in turning the tie around, especially considering their low quality of play and morale.
Additionally, Chelsea is not at full strength. Ben Chilwell is suspended after receiving a red card in the first leg. Kalidou Koulibaly is injured, and Kai Havertz, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Carney Chukwemeka are not in the best physical condition.
Real Madrid comes to Stamford Bridge with confidence, having recently defeated Cadiz even though they played mostly with their reserve players. The Spanish side is in perfect shape both physically and mentally for the second leg.
Real only has a slight issue with Toni Kroos and Vinicius who have minor injuries. However, even if these two players cannot play, Real still has quality options to replace them such as Marco Asensio or Aurelien Tchouameni.
The Champions League is Real Madrid’s most important objective this season as they struggle to compete with Barcelona for the La Liga title. Manager Carlo Ancelotti is also highly regarded in cup competitions. When Real Madrid is focused and determined, Chelsea will have a hard time causing an upset.
Expected lineups
- Chelsea: Kepa; James, Fofana, Silva, Cucurella; E. Fernandez, Kante, Kovacic; Mudryk, Havertz, Felix
- Real Madrid: Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Camavinga; Modric, Valverde, Kroos; Rodrygo, Benzema, Vinicius Jr
Prediction: Chelsea 0-2 Real Madrid