Chelsea’s inability to find the net continued as they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Real Madrid in their Champions League quarter-final clash on Wednesday. Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio scored the goals that led to Chelsea’s 17th loss of the season, putting the defending champions in a strong position to advance.
The loss marks the fourth consecutive match without a goal for the London club, a streak not experienced since December 1993 under Glenn Hoddle. Chelsea’s scoring drought is a significant factor in their disappointing season, with Raheem Sterling, Joao Felix, and Mason Mount all missing crucial chances against Real Madrid.
Former Premier League defender Jamie Carragher expressed doubt that Chelsea could turn the tie around in the second leg at Stamford Bridge next Tuesday. “I think it is difficult to come back from that,” Carragher said, adding that the team’s struggle to score has been a season-long issue.
Chelsea’s 17 goalless games this season have highlighted the need for new attacking talent, with RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku set to join the club in the summer. There are also talks of making Joao Felix’s loan move permanent.
The team’s lack of a cutting edge in front of goal was criticized by ex-Chelsea captain Andy Townsend, who stated that the Blues “just can’t take” their chances when they present themselves. Townsend believes that Chelsea will need a miracle to progress into the Champions League semi-finals.
Caretaker manager Frank Lampard acknowledged the team’s lack of belief but insisted that their Champions League run isn’t over. Speaking after the match, Lampard said, “They’re a very good team, but we have to believe. There’s a little bit of a lack of belief. I think the players need to understand how good they are and what they can do.”
Despite their uphill battle, Chelsea will hope for a miraculous turnaround when they face Real Madrid in the second leg at Stamford Bridge on April 18.