It’s been a tight first half between Chelsea and Barcelona at Stamford Bridge, but that’s just how Antonio Conte wanted it.
His side have been defensively superb, with a lapse from Andreas Christensen just about the only error his back 5 have made. Victor Moses and Marcos Alonso have been useful outlets when they’ve had a chance, but have largely been tracking their opposite numbers.
The lack of numbers in midfield has made it tough to get the ball forward, but when they’ve managed it both Willian and Eden Hazard have looked dangerous, the Brazilian in particular striking the post and looking dangerous.
Cesc Fabregas and N’Golo Kante have held their own but look outnumbered, and reinforcement either there or in the forward areas would certainly help Chelsea retain the ball.
Barcelona have had most of the ball, but as of yet they aren’t pushing through the Blue wall. The home side will need to push forward more and control more of the game in the second half – but so far, so good.
