Bucharest: Olivier Giroud’s superb overhead kick made the difference as Chelsea defeated Chelsea Atletico Madrid in their Champions League round-of-16 match in Bucharest on Wednesday (February 24). It was always billed to be a tight affair, and that’s exactly how it turned out.
However, Giroud had to wait long on 71st minute to have the goal confirmed after a lengthy VAR check. The Blues had most of the ball possession with Diego Simeone’s Atletico dropping deep for most of the match. Chelsea had the better chances created, and it is a massive bonus that Giroud managed to get on the scoresheet.
Atletico too got their chances, but there weren’t too many clear openings for the home side, and Edouard Mendy was rarely found bothered. Chelsea were absolutely awful at the beginning and could have easily found themselves a goal down somewhere within the first couple of minutes.
However, Chelsea will miss Mason Mount and Jorginho in the second leg due to bookings picked up during this game.
