Jose Mourinho, once again, appears to be turning Chelsea into the team of the hour, having drawn 0-0 away in Madrid and then following that up with the impressive 2-0 away win at Liverpool that reopened up the Premier League title race.
Both games at the Calderon and Anfield had Mourinho’s indelible handprint all over them, as a calculated and defensive Blues side bided their time to hit their opponents on the counter attack. Some fans criticised the Portuguese strategist for his way of playing, and it will be interesting to see if he chooses the same defensive tactics on home soil.
One significant advantage for the Rojiblancos in London will be the depth in their roster, Atletico having an almost full squad available to them at Stamford Bridge. The only change Diego Simeone may have to make will be to replace Gabi with Mario Suarez in midfield while Arda Turan could return to the starting eleven following a groin injury.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are plagued with injuries and suspensions. Petr Cech will miss the remainder of the season with a shoulder injury, and will be replaced by Mark Schwarzer between the posts, while Frank Lampard and John Obi Mikel will be unavailable due to suspensions. According to latest reports, the Blues’ squad will receive a major upgrade with the return of Eden Hazard and John Terry, both of whom were major doubts leading up to Wednesday’s game.
Some essential statistics to help with online betting:
Chelsea are unbeaten in their last 16 clashes with Spanish sides in the Champions League (W6 D10), with their last defeat coming against Barcelona at Stamford Bridge in February 2006.
Atletico Madrid and Chelsea have met four times previously, three times in the Champions League and once in the European Super Cup; both teams have won once along with two draws.
Atletico have reached the semi-finals of the European Cup/Champions League for the first time since 1974 when they eventually lost in the final against Bayern Munich after a replay.
Atletico Madrid are the only team unbeaten in the Champions League this season (eight wins, three draws).
Diego Costa has scored seven goals in seven Champions League games (one assist).
This is the eighth time in 10 full seasons as manager that Jose Mourinho has reached the semifinals of the Champions League. It’s the third time with Chelsea after 2005 and 2007; however, he’s never made it to the final with the Blues.
Chelsea have won their last five Champions League knockout matches at Stamford Bridge, keeping a clean sheet in the last three of these.
Chelsea managed just five shots (inc. blocked) in the first leg. They have only attempted fewer in one CL game this season (one v Basle on 26/11/2013).
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