Chelsea Hold Atlético to 0-0 Draw, Mourinho Pleased with Tactical Performance
Chelsea manager José Mourinho expressed satisfaction with his team’s 0-0 draw against Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final, a result that leaves the English side with a strong advantage heading into the return match at Stamford Bridge.
The London club, who have been solid defensively under Mourinho’s guidance, managed to keep Atlético at bay throughout a tightly contested and tactical encounter in Madrid. Despite not finding the back of the net themselves, Chelsea now have the upper hand, needing only a draw or a win in the second leg to progress to the final.
“The goal was to work as a team,” Mourinho said post-match. “My players were very brave, very solid. They deserve this result, which allows us to remain in the race. It was a very tactical match, and no one was able to find a way through.”
Mourinho’s tactical approach was evident throughout the game, with his instructions to the players focused on limiting Atlético’s attacking threat. The Spanish side is renowned for their high pressing and relentless energy, but Chelsea managed to stifle their efforts.
“My instructions were not to carry the ball too much because Atlético is always pressing very hard,” Mourinho explained. “I wasn’t looking for a 0-0. The goal was to not concede a goal. And maybe to score some. After all, it’s better to come away with a 0-0 draw than to have lost, right?”
Despite his pragmatic approach, the Portuguese manager admitted that a 5-0 win would have been his preferred outcome, but he remained pleased with the result. “We’re going to give everything to win this Champions League,” he said, indicating his team’s full commitment to the competition.
Mourinho also suggested that he may rotate his squad for the upcoming Premier League match against Liverpool, with the Champions League semi-final second leg in mind. “I’ll ask the club owner’s permission to rotate the squad,” he revealed. “In any case, we frustrated Atlético. That’s good because usually, they’re the ones who frustrate everyone.”
As Chelsea prepare for the return leg in London, Mourinho’s tactical discipline and his team’s resilience could prove decisive in securing their place in the final. With the tie delicately poised, the second leg promises to be another thrilling encounter.
