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Real Madrid ended Chelsea's Champions League hopes with a 2-0 win in the quarter-final at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, 18th April 2023. Rodrygo scored twice in the second half to add to the two-goal lead secured in the first leg in the Bernabeu. The Spanish champions dominated the first 15 minutes, but Chelsea got back into the game and had several chances to score. In the first half, N'Golo Kante missed a glorious opportunity while Marc Cucurella was stopped by former Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois when he seemed likely to reduce the Real advantage. Vinicius Junior led a fast counter-attack, resulting in Rodrygo scoring the first goal before Federico Valverde’s brilliant work led to the Brazilian's second goal with ten minutes remaining. Real Madrid will now face Bayern Munich or Manchester City in the semi-finals, while Chelsea's interim coach Frank Lampard must lift the mood of the club after four consecutive defeats under his management.
Chelsea and Real Madrid were aware of what was at stake in this quarterfinal fixture, and the visitors started the game on the front foot. However, the Blues fought back and had several opportunities to take the lead in the first half. They started to dominate the game, but their inability to convert their chances proved costly. Real's defence was on full display in the second half, as they kept Chelsea at bay, despite the home side pressing hard for an equalizer.
The game's turning point came in the 58th minute when Vinicius Junior led a quick counter-attack, resulting in Rodrygo scoring from close range. Chelsea tried to get back into the game, but Real Madrid's defence proved too strong for them. Valverde's unselfish work led to Rodrygo's second goal, and the Brazilian put the tie to bed.
Real Madrid's win was fully deserved, and they progressed to the semi-finals of the Champions League, where they will face Bayern Munich or Manchester City. Carlo Ancelotti's side will fancy their chances of going all the way, especially given their performance against Chelsea in both legs of the quarterfinals.
On the other hand, Chelsea's defeat compounded their misery under Frank Lampard. The Blues have now lost their last four games, and Lampard must lift the mood of the club to avoid a disastrous end to the season. The interim manager has a tough task on his hands, and he must find a way to get his players back to winning ways.
Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Chelsea in the Champions League quarter-finals was a dominant display by the Spanish champions. They showed their defensive resilience and took their chances to secure a comfortable win. On the other hand, Chelsea must now pick themselves up after their fourth consecutive defeat under Frank Lampard. The London club must find a way to finish the season on a high note to avoid further disappointment.
