Europa League
Chelsea’s European Restoration
They always say that every setback is a setup for a comeback. Chelsea travel to Malmo today coming off their worst Premier League defeat in their existence. A convincing win today may not restore all confidence in the squad, but it would be a good start. With hopes of a top four finish in the Premier League dwindling away, the blues must remember there are alternate routes to that Champions League play they hope for.
Confidence Booster
The blues look forward to Europa play since they have been dominant throughout all group play. Chelsea’s play throughout the half would be decisive and urgent. However, Malmö’s high press would bring unwanted chaos to blues back four. Malmö have not played a competitive match since September. Ross Barkley would get the breakthrough goal for Chelsea in the 30th minute from a perfectly placed cross from Pedro. Barkley, who had his struggles in the Man City game, needed this major confidence booster. Giroud would double up Chelsea’s advantage early in the second half from an assist by Willian. The Frenchman would cheekily back heel the smooth pass into the back of the net. Christiansen would pull one back for Malmö in the 80th minute. The Swedish club would make Chelsea earn this win by keeping high pressure on their midfield the entire match.
The Manchester Gauntlet
Chelsea were able to squeeze on out a much needed win today in their first leg match. The blues can hang their hat on finally scoring their first goal away from Stamford Bridge in 2019. Maurizio Sarri will be upset that his squad were not able to win with a bigger margin allowing him to rest his stars for the second leg. Chelsea are in the midst of the Manchester gauntlet. Manchester United will be traveling to the bridge this weekend for their FA Cup match. No rest for the weary blues as they will meet the defending champs in the Carabao Cup Final one week later. This stretch of matches will be the biggest test Sarri will have to prepare for as his time as manager.
Photo credit to Chelsea via Twitter
