Chelsea claimed a memorable 3-0 win over Barcelona in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge last night.
The Blues stomped out any threat from the Spanish club with an excellent all-round performance.
Barca manager Hansi Flick paid Chelsea the ultimate compliment, praising their aggression and ability to keep it up for long spells.
“We have to play a little bit more aggressively,” he said. “Especially in the one-on-one situations. Chelsea, they always have it. That’s what I want from my team!”
The Blues were more aggressive in both attack and defence. That proved to be the difference on the night.
Chelsea forced Barca into an own goal early on, setting the pace for the game. Estevao Willian scored a brilliant effort, and Liam Delap put the gloss on proceedings.
Several Chelsea players put in outstanding shifts, including Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Marc Cucurella and Estevao.
The Blues have climbed into fifth place in the Champions League standings, one of the automatic round of 16 qualification spots, and will be keen to hold on to it.
The next objective is to carry this performance into the London derby clash with Arsenal.
The Premier League table toppers have made light work of the Blues in recent match-ups. They are unbeaten against them in seven meetings since August 2021 (W5, D2).
Chelsea will need to bring their ‘A’ game against a well-structured Arsenal side eager to put some distance between themselves and the chasing pack.
Maresca’s side has shown they can stand toe to toe with any club in the world, and claiming this scalp over the Gunners must be the next target.
