It's time for the Endgame. The UEFA Champions League 2020/21 Semi Finals kicked off last night as Chelsea secured, what could prove to be a vital away goal in their 1-1 draw with Real Madrid.
Real came into the game on the back of a 0-0 draw which saw them go two points behind city rivals Atletico in the LaLiga title race. They were still without their Captain Sergio Ramos but are likely to have him back for the second leg next week.
Chelsea's push for a top 4 finish went the right way on the weekend when they defeated unlikely fellow top 4 chasers West Ham United 1-0 in the London Derby.
In a raining night in Madrid, it was Chelsea who started off strong and perhaps should have been scored more. The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when centre back Antonio Rudiger laid out a long ball to Christian Pulisic, who showed great skills and composure to get past Courtois and smash it in.
Real Madrid found a way back in the 29th minute through a brillant piece of technique from Karim Benzema. The Frenchman reacted and steered a volley with power past Mendy to make it 1-1. It was his 71st UCL goal making him the joint fourth top scorer in the competition along with Raul. Only Messi, Ronaldo and Lewandowki have scored more.
There was a clear dip in quality after the break from both sides as it's finished honours even. The second leg will take place next Wednesday at Stamford Bridge.
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