Tuesday, 22 April 2014

Atletico Madrid 0-0 Chelsea: Resolute Blues hang on despite Cech & Terry blows

The goalkeeper and defender were forced off through injury, and are now doubts for Sunday's clash with Liverpool, as the visitors stifled the Liga leaders at Vicente Calderon

Petr Cech Atletico Madrid Chelsea Champions League semi final 04222014

Chelsea earned a credible 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg, with Petr Cech and John Terry forced off through injury.

The goalkeeper and captain were both withdrawn, while midfield duo Frank Lampard and John Obi Mikel will miss the return encounter through suspension, along with Atletico skipper Gabi, after picking up yellow cards on Tuesday.

Chelsea's two injury setbacks - Cech has suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder - are also a huge blow for Jose Mourinho ahead of Sunday's crucial Premier League title clash with leaders Liverpool as the London club continue to chase silverware on two fronts.

Goalmouth action was scarce in a tight affair at Vicente Calderon, with Chelsea seemingly content to drop deep and escape the Spanish capital with a clean sheet.

Much of Atletico's success under Diego Simeone has been built on lethal counter-attacking play, but Chelsea's game plan forced the Liga leaders to take the initiative and the hosts were unable to break down a stubborn visiting backline well marshalled by Terry, who left the field in the 73rd minute after twisting his left ankle.

Cech had already gone off in the first half, while Lampard, Mikel and Gabi were all booked in quick succession as tempers frayed slightly.

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