Thiago Silva has told Calcio Mercato that Chelsea nearly let AC Milan back into last night’s Champions League game at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues eventually ran out 3-0 winners against the Serie A champions, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Reece James adding to Wesley Fofana’s first half goal, his first for the club.
The game posed a large importance for the club, with them needing the win following a dire start to the competition, under both Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter.
The second half was comfortable for Chelsea, however there was a massive moment before half-time which could have seen things be completely different.
After Kepa Arrizabalaga had made a good save, Rade Krunic seemed to have the whole goal to aim at on the rebound, but his shot blazed over, partly down to the brilliant defending of Ben Chilwell.
Silva warns Chelsea
Silva has claimed that a different result from this golden chance could have completely swung the game, and avoiding conceding was crucial in the circumstances.
He said: “We played a great game. It is normal when one team plays well that the other suffers a little. If Milan had scored at the end first half things would have changed.”
“I always tell my players: in a match there are many matches and it was important not to concede that goal. The second half we did well and Milan were in a bit of difficulty, but on Tuesday it will be another match.”
The former Milan man was at his vintage best again last night, with Chelsea’s reliance on his services not decreasing despite his age continuing to be a point of concern.
The Blues won’t have long to savour this European victory though. The return fixture in less than a week at the San Siro holds just as much importance as yesterday’s big win.
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