Following a 2-0 home victory, Real Madrid now travel to London in an attempt to secure their spot in the Champions League semi-finals, where they will face Man City or Bayern Munich. Lampard will hope to get his first win as Chelsea boss and 2nd win in his last 18 managerial games.
Last week, goals from Benzema and Asensio punished Chelsea for their tame attacking efforts – and a red card for Chilwell was the nail in the coffin for the Blues. Following their European defeat, Chelsea looked to return to winning ways domestically – having failed to win a game since their 3-1 win against Leicester on the 11 March. However, after going 1-0 up, the Blues threw it away and a wonderstrike from Enciso won the game for Brighton. In Spain, Real Madrid’s attempt to continue their win-streak was successful as Asensio scored again and Cadiz were beaten 2-0.
Real Madrid looked favourites for this tie since the balls were drawn, but their 2-0 win at home may just see Chelsea knocked out of all possible cup competitions this season. However, Chelsea saw themselves in a similar position in the last round. Potter’s side faced German giants Borussia Dortmund and after a 1-0 loss at the Signal Iduna Park, Chelsea hosted the opposition at Stamford Bridge – where they emerged as 2-0 victors, sending them through. However, now Lampard is in control and after losses to Wolves, Real Madrid and Brighton, the Lions will need somewhat of a miracle to progress in the competition.
Team News
Both of Chelsea’s recent absences were brought upon them in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu. Senegalese defender, Koulibaly, will be sidelined for a few more weeks due to his hamstring injury. His fellow defender, Chilwell saw red after pulling Rodrygo whilst the Brazilian ran through on goal – the ex-Leicester man will serve his suspension at Stamford Bridge. Armando Broja is ruled out for the season after an ACL rupture before Christmas. Other forwards, such as Aubameyang, D.D Fofana and Madueke all are ineligible – whilst Benoît Badiashile will also watch the game from the stands.
For Los Blancos, Ancelotti will have to pick between Camavinga and Nacho to replace Mendy after he picked up a muscle injury last month. Apart from the French left-back, Real Madrid travel to Stamford Bridge with a fully fit squad for this second leg.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea: Arrizabalaga; Fofana; Silva; Chalobah; James; Kanté; Enzo; Cucurella; Sterling; Havertz; Mudryk
Real Madrid: Courtois; Camavinga; Alaba; Militão; Carvajal; Modrić; Kroos; Valverde; Vinícius; Benzema; Rodrygo
Where Can I Watch?
Chelsea host Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge at 20:00PM UK time on Tuesday 18th April 2023. You can watch the game being broadcast live on BT Sport 1, where coverage will begin at 7PM UK time.
