Chelsea Secure 'Ugly' Win Against Benfica: Maresca Relieved
Chelsea managed to secure a 1-0 victory against Benfica in a recent Champions League match, a win that manager Enzo Maresca described as 'ugly' but 'important'. The match, which marked Chelsea's first home Champions League game in over two years, saw an own goal by Benfica's Richard Rios after pressure from Alejandro Garnacho secure the lead for the Blues.
Maresca's Reaction: A Win is a Win
Maresca acknowledged the importance of the win, especially considering the team's injury situation. He stated, 'We needed for sure the win, the three points, for different reasons. I think first half we controlled the game, we scored the goal, we created more chances and we didn’t concede nothing apart from two or three transitions, which is normal.'
He further added, 'And then second half, for different reasons, we dropped. I think we have some players on the pitch that unfortunately are not 100 per cent, but they are playing because we have seven or eight players out. But also it was good to win tonight, in any case, even if sometimes you need to learn to win in an ugly way, like the last minutes of the game.'
Joao Pedro's Red Card: A Sigh of Relief for Premier League Fans
Despite the victory, a late red card for Joao Pedro raised concerns. However, the suspension will only apply to Chelsea's Champions League matches, meaning he will be available for their upcoming Premier League clash against Liverpool. This comes as a relief after recent Premier League games saw Chelsea suffer from red cards, impacting their results.
Pedro received his marching orders after picking up two yellow cards late in the game. While serious offences can lead to suspensions across both the Premier League and Champions League, the nature of Pedro's dismissal ensures he remains available domestically.
Looking Ahead
With six Champions League games remaining, Maresca has his sights set on finishing in the top eight. 'First of all, the target is to continue the next stage, but if we are able to finish top eight, that is very good for us,' he said. The focus now shifts to their next game, with the hope of welcoming back some key players from injury.