Chelsea vs Real Madrid: 3 Blancos the Blues must stop

Karim Benzema

Benzema has taken the third most shots on target (14) and the fourth most shots on target per 90 (2.6) of all players in the Champions League this season. The Madrid talismann has not been as hot as he was last season, especially in the Champions League, but he is still a very deadly striker. He scored two goals and setup a third in their 5-2 demolition of Liverpool at Anfield. The 35-year-old Frenchman is one of the reasons Vinicius Jr. is so effective, as his position requires centerbacks to pay close attention to him, this means you cannot dedicate as many men to stopping either Benzema or Vinicious Jr. as any manager would want.

Benzema scored in both games against the Reds and in the first leg of this tie. His movement, strength and technique are impeccable and he is extremely effective in situations where his opponents are in disarray. Defensive errors will be punished when the former Lyon sriker is on the pitch. The Blues must ensure they keep the Madrid captain as quiet as possible if they’re going to get anything out out of this game, let alone advancing through to the semifinals.