Torres Takes The Blues Through

Torres Takes The Blues Through

Chelsea continued their hot streak and managed to go through the next round of the Europa League beating Rubin Kazan 5-4 on aggregate in an entertaining encounter over two legs. Even though most of the Blues’ players have expressed their disappointment with their failure to make it in the Champions League, their dedication on the pitch was admirable. Benitez managed to motivate his footballers and helped them maintain great chances of winning a trophy this year. Chelsea are still involved in the FA Cup and have a great chance of finishing within the Premier League top three.

Even though the Blues lost 3-2 tonight, their 3-1 win in the first leg was enough to secure their place in the next stage of the competition. The match started in the best way possible for the Blues, who managed an early goal. Torres, who is starting to look better with each match lately, scored his third goal against Rubin Kazan after a great pass from Lampard. The Spaniard found the back of the net with a great lob reminding Chelsea fans why he came to Stamford Bridge.

The match had an excellent rhythm to it, with both teams missing out on some great opportunities.  The second half started just as intensely as the first half. Six minutes into the game Rubin managed the equalizer. Marcano scored his second goal of the season after a great free kick executed by Orbaiz.

Chelsea offered a great response through Moses, who took advantage of Ramires’ excellent pass.  He avoided the keeper with a skilled shot getting the Blues back ahead in the game. Rubin managed the equalizer again through Karadeniz, who placed a header in the back of the net, taking advantage of Chelsea’s disoriented defenders.

The next couple of minutes were dominated by the Russian side which missed out on some great chances. The 73rd minute came with a penalty for Rubin Kazan. Azpillicueta pushed Ryazantsev in the box and the referee pointed to the spot. Natkho sent Cech the wrong way and the Russians were ahead. Rubin pushed for the equalizer to the aggregate score but Chelsea held firm having been very nicely organized by Benitez and the match ended without any really clearcut chances for either side.