The spoils were shared at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals match between Real Madrid and Chelsea.
Both teams could only manage a lone goal each, both scored in the first half amidst torrid weather in Madrid.
The Blues were on the front foot at the beginning of the match with Timo Werner coming very close to scoring. However, the German fluffed his chance, shooting straight at the trailing leg of Thibaut Courtois from six yards out.
Chelsea eventually converted their chance some minutes later. A lobbed pass from Antonio Rudiger found Christian Pulisic who meandered away from the Real Madrid goalkeeper and defenders to bury a superb shot from the middle of the box.
The Blues’ lead was however short-lived as moments later, a well-worked corner resulted in the equaliser. Militao set up Karim Benzema who rifled in a half volley beating Edouard Mendy in goal.
Click here to find out what happens if Real and Atlético Madrid finish level on points in La Liga.
The scores were deservedly even at the interval as both teams managed to cancel out one another.
In contrast to the first half, the second half showcased a more subdued performance from both sides. Neither side created much with Madrid not able to muster a single shot on target.
Man of the match, N’Golo Kanté was solid throughout, working the opposition in midfield.
Former Chelsea star Eden Hazard was substituted in at the 66th minute. However, he failed to make any real impact with his new team against his former side.
The result means that Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea take an away goal advantage back to Stamford Bridge where they will host Zidane’s side next week in the second leg tie.
“We could’ve done more tonight. It’s a bittersweet feeling, you have to take your chances,” Chelsea captain César Azpilicueta said after the match. “The second leg is going to be another battle.”
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Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane praised his side’s effort, admitting they struggled for control at some parts of the game. He however insisted that his team are still very much contenders to progress.
“The first part of the first half was very difficult for us but we controlled it more in the second half. They’re very quick, have good players, and started really well,” he said in his post-match interview.
“We’re still in the tie and we’re happy with the overall performance. We’re also good at playing away from home, we press high.
“They [Chelsea] are in the semi-final for a reason, they’re a good side. The second leg will be very competitive.”
Eden Hazard was happy to have been given minutes, having recently been sidelined for most of the season due to injuries.
“Now I feel in a better condition and the body is better, so I’m just happy I can play again.”
It was his first appearance against Chelsea since leaving Stamford Bridge.
“It’s always good to play against friends,” he said.
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