Barcelona v Chelsea: 1st Leg

I can't say exactly how I felt about the match. I suppose contented would suffice. Chelsea was totally dominated in possession and shots, but we held strong in defense, which is a good strategy against the Spanish giants, but it also makes for a BORING ass match. At least we didn't have to be embarrassed by the end result (unlike Bayern Munich), but I feel an away goal would have set a better tone for the home leg. I guess we shall just have to see next week.


Jose Bosingwa did well to force Messi to the middle where Ballack and Mikel were sitting back to assist. He was playing out of position so I give him credit for keeping the Argentinian at bay. I'll be intrigued to see how Ashley Cole fairs next Wednesday.


Essien was his normal "train-like" self, no matter what position he was playing in. (I believe Guus changed his position 3 times throughout the match.)


Drogba did well as the only striker in a defensive match. He still caused some trouble for the Barcelona defense.


Frank didn't have his best game of the season, but he was still a pest to Iniesta and Xavi, which was basically his task for the match. Here he is telling Dani Alves to "step off" yo. After he came out in the 70th minute, the game seemed to take on a different tempo, and one that I was not best pleased with. (In fact, it gave me heart palpitations. Guus, just leave him in alright.)


In the end, Petr Cech came out the victor (and the man of the match for the Chelsea side, in my opinion). Oh, and Malouda removed his shirt too. Oh goodie!

pictures via dailymail and The Sun