Closed Benfica vs Chelsea

[Wavy Crockett 190]

I believe we've played well enough, you can't really expect more urgency and creativity going forward knowing our current side

[CHOULO19 24,332]

Half time. Can't really fault the team's performance. Good energy and movement, could use a bit more quality going forward. I'd take Kalou off for Danny at the 60th min mark, he has offered verylittle so far.

[Madmax 9,219]

Both teams have worked their socks off when out of possession.

[Manuf 1,448]

I'd like a Sturridge for Meireles, so Rami can move to the middle and we'll get Raul out of the game because I can feel us ending it with 10 man if he continues.

[petr.breu 1,618]

Boring... Mata is invisible... Good from Ramires, Torres and great defensive work from Mikel... Terry, Luiz, Cole and Ferreira without a trouble...

[Peace. 4,352]

I'm stunned at how our technical qualities are low. Two passes in a row seem to be the hardest thing to accomplish...

[Jase 43,479]

For a European away game, it's a decent performance and game plan working well so far. Just need to do better offensively.

[Kieran. 6,317]

Other scores: Apoel holding Madrid 0-0 at the half.

[BenficaGlory 86]

What a terrible game. I expected more dynamic and aggressiveness from Benfica.

[Billy. 2,739]

not too bad if we score i think it will kill them off tbh

[Slam Dunk 1,442]

Mata looks knackered.

[TomCFC 356]

Pleasing.

[vitalic. 17]

Fairly happy with the start, I feel we are in control of this game. Would love a goal in the second half.

[Blue Armour 4,168]

Ashley Cole and Mikel have played really well so far...Hopefully someone up front can score and we can settle this in one leg itself...it could be crucial in light of the fixture congestion

[Madmax 9,219]

Only mild concern is about Meireles - could end up with 10 here. Get Lampard in and calm the middle of the pitch down.

[Jype 6,398]

I'd like a Sturridge for Meireles, so Rami can move to the middle and we'll get Raul out of the game because I can feel us ending it with 10 man if he continues.

Ramires on the right wing is vital defensively because he covered a lot for Ferreira whose legs just aren't what they used to be 8 years ago. Perhaps Sturridge could come in on the left for Kalou who did nothing right offensively in the first half and gave away a stupid foul right on the edge of the box.

[Blue Armour 4,168]

^agree with the posts above..Sturridge and Lampard could be useful subs in the second half...and of course, there's Drogba as well.

[Santiago. 1,500]

Lampard for Miereles

Malouda for Kalou