A Karim Benzema hat trick put the Spanish league leaders in the driving seat going into the return leg as Kai Havertz’ first half goal ensured Chelsea’s ship hadn’t fully sunk.
Tuchel’s men should arrive in the Spanish capital in good spirits, coming off the back of hitting six past Southampton on Saturday, in what was a superb response to two dismal home results to Brentford and Real Madrid.
But the German manager won’t be fooled with the task that lies ahead. 3-1 down, in the cathedral of Champions League royalty, against the thirteen-time winners of the competition, Chelsea have got it all to do.
But we’ve seen stranger things happen. That’s the beauty of this competition. Chelsea sent the Spanish outfit crashing out of the Champions League in the semi-finals last season and created plenty of chances last week in the first leg too.
The team Tuchel has pieced together in his short stay in London is certainly capable of clawing back a result against a Madrid side that can certainly leak goals. As proven against bitter rivals Barcelona last month.
Team News
Thomas Tuchel has confirmed club captain Cesar Azpilicueta will be part of the Chelsea squad to face Real Madrid on Tuesday evening.
Callum Hudson-Odoi remains sidelined and is joined by Ross Barkley who will miss out on Chelsea’s trip to Spain through illness.
Tuchel has also confirmed Romelu Lukaku won’t be travelling to Madrid either.
Tuchel said in his press conference: “Romelu will not travel due to his pain in the Achilles that he has felt recently but Azpi is in the group.
“He has tested negative several times now and is okay to be part of the squad.”
Former Chelsea player Eden Hazard missed his sides’ visit to Stamford Bridge last week with an ankle injury and will be absent for the second leg also.
Luka Jovic (ankle) and Isco (back) are both also set to miss out on Tuesday night’s game at the Bernabeu.
Meanwhile Eder Militao, who started the first leg, is suspended.
One to Watch: Karim Benzema
It’s safe to say the Frenchmen has the bit between his teeth given the fine run of form he’s on. Back-to-back hat tricks in the Champions League, Benzema will be looking to put the final nail in the coffin to eliminate Chelsea from the Champions League.
Benzema is flying in all competitions this year justifying why he’s a worthy, early candidate for this year’s Ballon D’or.
Benzema is ten goals clear at the top of the goal scoring charts in La Liga with twenty-four goals to his name. His partner in crime, Vinicius Junior, sits in second place.
The Brazilian is another player who Chelsea must keep quiet, if they want to reach the final four.
How to watch
The match will be broadcasted on BT Sport Ultimate and BT Sport 2.
Kick Off: 8pm