Battle won, War still ahead...

Last night was pump and pageantry for Chelsea players and faithfuls; when against all odds, they defeated mighty Barca with a lone goal at the Bridge. As expected the Spanish giants dominated the game with waves of attack, but it was the resilient Blues that came out victorious. Fabregas was a constant threat until he was substituted in the 78^th minute

Lots of people may condemn Chelsea’s approach to the game, but I personally applaud their discipline and focus throughout the 94 minutes. Although the whole squad rose up to the occasion, there were some outstanding players that dictated the score line. Tough Cahill successfully covered up in the absence of Luiz. His defensive aggressiveness was equally matched with astute discipline. Cech gave a replica his good old days that made him the best goalie in years past. Mikel was able to track most of the runs made by Xavi and Messi. The old Drog gave Barcelona a tough time throughout the night. Apart from his clinical goal, his involvements in the midfield play coupled with his theatrics, ensured that Chelsea were on the winning side.

Owing to the controversies surrounding the previous meetings of both teams, there was a lot to play for. But thanks to the referee’s superb control of the game, much cannot be said about any external influence on the result. Like I always assert, a bit of luck in football can play a major role on the outcome of each game. That luck was lacking as Barca struck the cross bar and post, at crucial moments of the game.

Enough said, we will now turn our attention to next week, when both sides meet at Nou camp. In my view, if Chelsea can repeat this performance, and the referees avoid having a bad day, the English side could be on their way to a second final in four years. Di Matteo must be the proudest man strolling in the parks of London.